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The government of Iran announced Sunday that it will expand internet access for university professors. This decision comes as the country enters its 51st day of almost complete internet shutdown, affecting the general population. Although this move signals a slight relaxation, most citizens across the country still do not have access to the global internet.
Why Iran imposed a nationwide internet blackout
The internet was shut down Iran was introduced citing national security concerns amid rising tensions United States And Israel. Authorities said the restriction was necessary during the war and internal security risks.
However, the power outage has resulted in almost total isolation for ordinary citizens. Internet connectivity has reportedly fallen to extremely low levels, leaving millions of people unable to access global websites, services or communications platforms for weeks.
The internet shutdown in Iran continues to affect over 90 million people
The internet blackout was imposed due to national security concerns amid tensions United States And Israel. Due to this restriction, the majority of Iran’s population, over 90 million, remains cut off from global online services.
For more than seven weeks, people have found it difficult to stay in touch with family members living abroad. Access to independent news and information has been very limited, forcing many to rely primarily on state-controlled media.
Internet blackout in Iran hits companies and economy hard
According to NetBlocks, the ongoing shutdown has caused major disruption to everyday life. Businesses that rely on the internet have suffered significant losses and many have been unable to operate properly.
Business leaders and internet freedom activists have sharply criticized the blackout, calling it a violation of human rights. They also warn that this is making an already fragile economy worse.
Iran’s domestic internet system creates a divide between citizens and elites
Despite the restrictions, people in Iran can still access a domestic internet network. This system is separate from international websites and is closely monitored by authorities.
However, only a limited group, including officials and select elites, have access to the open global Internet. This has created a clear divide between ordinary citizens and those with special access.
Limited access to Google services returns, but restrictions remain
Recent reports suggest that authorities have begun easing some internet restrictions. Access to Google Search and Google Maps has reportedly been restored.
However, experts say this access is still very limited. Users can search but cannot open most websites displayed in the results, meaning the Internet is still largely blocked.
Iran plans to gradually expand internet access for professors and researchers
Seyed Mehdi Abtahi, Iran’s deputy science minister, said professors and researchers will soon have broader Internet access, except for websites, which remain restricted.
“Based on a list available to us, steps have been taken to provide professors with access to the international Internet and this will be gradually extended to all professors,” Abtahi was quoted as saying by the semi-official ISNA news agency.
This shows that the government may gradually ease restrictions, starting with the academic community.
Public reaction shows growing frustration with internet restrictions
Some Iranians, who have managed to access the internet through expensive and unreliable black market systems, have criticized the announcement. They believe the furor over restricted access shows how serious the situation has become.
Their response highlights the frustration of citizens who continue to face limited communications and access to global information.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in Iran, where tough internet restrictions continue to affect millions of people, while limited relief raises concerns about equity and access.
