Fars: Iran may end internet blackout in two weeks

Iranian authorities may decide within the next two weeks to restore access to the global internet, per a local news agency Fars.

The agency noted that the internet shutdown in the country was aimed at reducing the influence of foreign messaging apps, which had contributed to protests escalating into widespread unrest. Fars adds that currently, Iran is operating a national internet, with domestic websites and partially functional local messaging services.

“Over the coming one to two weeks, the relevant authorities will decide on granting broader access to the internet,” the report said.

Nationwide protests erupted in late December 2025, initially driven by economic hardship, sharp currency collapse, rising inflation and living costs. Demonstrations quickly expanded into broad anti‑government unrest demanding political change.

On January 8, 2026, Iranian authorities imposed a near‑total internet and telecommunications blackout — effectively disconnecting most of the country from the global internet.

On January 14, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported that 2,403 protesters, 147 people affiliated with the security forces and government, and nine uninvolved civilians had been confirmed killed since the protests began. In addition, HRANA said it had received 779 other reports of deaths that remained under review.

By Khagan Isayev