Iran’s internet blackout fuels fear and isolation
Iran’s internet blackout fuels fear and isolation
Amid escalating tensions following Israeli and U.S. strikes on Tehran, locals describe a growing sense of dread as they lose touch with loved ones and face unclear circumstances. The Iranian government has imposed a complete internet shutdown, leaving citizens stranded without real-time updates. This disruption has intensified anxiety, with many reporting that the uncertainty surrounding their relatives’ safety is nearly overwhelming.
On Thursday evening, Tehran experienced a barrage of aerial attacks, as residents observed low-flying jets and felt the tremors of powerful explosions. By early Friday, the Israeli military claimed to have concluded its assault, targeting the capital’s core and key infrastructure linked to the regime. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump had delayed his potential strike on Iran’s energy installations, contingent on Tehran lifting its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite a 50% budget boost in March 2025, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) has struggled to reclaim public trust. A survey by the Iranian Students Polling Agency revealed that before the June 2025 Twelve-Day War, only 12.5% of Iranians relied on IRIB for news, compared to 51% in 2017. Many now turn to Persian-language outlets abroad, other state broadcasters like DW, or social media platforms, particularly Instagram, which boasts 24 million users within the country.
Although these platforms are officially restricted, Iranians use virtual private network (VPN) services to bypass censorship. A VPN creates an encrypted connection between a device and a remote server, enabling access to global internet. However, since the U.S.-Israel conflict began on February 28, the government has blocked even VPNs, requiring satellite providers like Starlink to function. These services are costly, sometimes ten times more expensive than standard connections.
According to the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence, hundreds of Starlink units have been seized nationwide. Internet expert Keyvan Samadi explained to DW how authorities track such devices. He noted that Starlink transmits signals to satellites, which can be detected by specialized equipment. Radio triangulation helps approximate their location, leading to arrests of users since the war’s outbreak.
Many Iranians still manage to access the internet, albeit at high prices. Despite financial strain caused by the ongoing conflict and shuttered businesses, some prioritize staying informed. They view the internet blackouts as a psychological toll, exacerbating the stress of severed communication with family and the constant fear of retaliation.
We don’t watch state television anymore, and I hardly know anyone who still does,” shared a Tehran resident in a group chat. “They only broadcast for themselves and their supporters,” added another. This sentiment reflects a broader disillusionment with domestic media, as citizens seek alternative sources for news and updates.
This article, contributed by Danyal Babayani and translated from German, highlights the multifaceted impact of the internet shutdown on Iranian society.
