Internet blackout persists in Iran as regime rules out restoring access after 83 days

21/05/2026

Internet blackout persists in Iran as regime rules out restoring access after 83 days

TEHRAN, May 21: An Iranian lawmaker has said there are currently no plans to restore full internet access in the country, citing ongoing security concerns and describing the situation as one of “neither war nor peace,” according to remarks reported by Iranian media.

Ali Yazdikhah, deputy head of Iran’s parliament cultural committee, said on Thursday that internet restrictions imposed by the Supreme National Security Council will remain in place. He noted that access to international networks would continue to be limited to individuals and organizations deemed to have specific or specialized requirements, while emphasizing that domestic platforms are capable of meeting what he claimed is “more than 90 percent” of public needs.

The comments come as Iran continues to face widespread connectivity restrictions. According to internet monitoring group NetBlocks, the country’s internet blackout has now entered its 83rd consecutive day, with international access heavily restricted for more than 1,968 hours.

NetBlocks has repeatedly warned that restrictions of this scale significantly impact communication, transparency, and access to information, stating that a free and open internet is essential for protecting life, liberty, and public accountability.

The prolonged disruption has drawn attention from digital rights observers, who have raised concerns over the impact on civilians, businesses, and access to global online services.