As drones and missiles dominate the headlines in the conflict between Iran and the US-Israel coalition, a digital war has been raging in the shadows for over a month. The Iranian regime imposed an almost complete internet shutdown, now entering its 35th consecutive day, with network connectivity reduced to just 1% of normal levels, according to internet observatory Netblocks.
Netblocks: Connectivity Stable at 1% After 810+ Hours
Netblocks reported that the blackout has lasted over 810 hours, with connectivity remaining at the extraordinary low of 1%. The organization stated: “The public remains cut off from vital updates and without a voice, isolated from the outside world as the event approaches its fifth week.” The draconian digital wall was erected after the outbreak of hostilities between Iran and the US-Israel coalition in early March, and shows no signs of easing.
Bypassing the Blockade: VPN, Tor, and the Risk of Death
Iranian citizens have turned to specialized VPNs and Tor’s Snowflake feature to breach the National Information Network (NIN), the regime’s intranet system. However, using such tools has become a life-threatening gamble. Authorities are increasingly checking personal phones for VPN or proxy apps, with violators facing heavy penalties, including potential prison time. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi defended the blackout as necessary for “protecting the people” amid security concerns.
Starlink Users Risk Execution Amid Jamming
Starlink satellite terminals have long been illegal in Iran, with possession potentially carrying the death penalty. Despite this, some citizens risk black-market purchases to bypass the internet blackout. Yet the regime is actively jamming satellite links, further destabilizing access. Netblocks noted that authorities consider any unauthorized external communication a serious crime.
Who Gets Free Access? Only Whitelisted Insiders
Not all Iranians are equally isolated. Whitelisted government officials, regime-friendly influencers, and select media outlets continue to enjoy unrestricted external access. This disparity fuels resentment but is unlikely to change as long as the military conflict persists. Analysts warn that such a prolonged blackout could deepen social isolation and fuel further underground digital resistance.