Iran partially restores internet after 88-day blackout amid diplomatic push
Iran has initiated the restoration of internet services after an 88-day outage, marking the country’s longest disruption ever. Connectivity has risen to around 35% of normal levels, as reported by NetBlocks. This movement follows a decision by the Special Task Force for Cyberspace Regulation to revert to standards prior to January 2026. First Vice-President Mohammad Reza Aref shared the news on social media, hinting at a potential shift towards greater online freedom. However, shortly after the announcement, a court intervened, casting uncertainty over the future of these connectivity enhancements amidst ongoing negotiations with the United States.
Key facts
- NetBlocks reported partial internet restoration on Tuesday after 88 days of near-total blackout.
- Connectivity rose from close to zero to around 35% of typical levels.
- First Vice-President Mohammad Reza Aref announced the restoration as a step toward free and regulated cyberspace.
- The Special Task Force voted on Monday to restore access to pre-January 2026 levels.
- A court suspended the task force's decision hours after the vote, per Fars news agency.
- The blackout was imposed after US and Israeli air strikes on Iranian leaders and infrastructure began in February.
- The partial restoration coincides with diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington to end the conflict.
- The conflict has resulted in thousands of Iranian deaths and disrupted the global economy.
Entities
Institutions
- NetBlocks
- Special Task Force for the Regulation and Governance of Cyberspace
- Fars news agency
Locations
- Iran
- Tehran
- United States
- Israel