NetBlocks Reports Iran Internet Blackout Now Longest Nationwide Shutdown On Record
Iran internet shutdown becomes longest, deepening isolation worldwide
Iran has plunged into what monitoring group NetBlocks describes as the longest nationwide internet shutdown ever recorded, marking an unprecedented level of digital isolation for the country.According to NetBlocks, the blackout has extended well beyond a month, surpassing previous global records for national-scale internet disruptions. The organisation said the shutdown had crossed more than 37 consecutive days (over 864 hours) and continued to deepen, exceeding all comparable incidents in both duration and severity.
Subsequent updates indicate the disruption has stretched even further, in some cases crossing 50 days and over 1,200 hours, with internet connectivity reduced to as little as 1–2% of normal levels. This has effectively cut off most of Iran’s population from global communication networks, leaving only limited or state-controlled access available.
The blackout began earlier in 2026 amid escalating domestic unrest and was later intensified following military tensions involving the United States and Israel. Authorities imposed near-total restrictions, affecting mobile data, fixed broadband, and even some communication services, significantly limiting the flow of independent information.
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Experts say the prolonged shutdown has had severe humanitarian and economic consequences. Millions of people have been unable to communicate with family members abroad, access critical information, or conduct business, with estimated economic losses running into billions of dollars.
The development highlights a broader global trend of governments using internet shutdowns as a tool of control during crises. However, analysts note that Iran’s case stands out due to its scale, duration, and near-total isolation, raising concerns among digital rights groups about long-term implications for access to information and civil liberties.
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