NetBlocks reported on January 11, 2026, that Iran’s internet blackout has passed the 60-hour mark. National connectivity stays at about 1 percent of normal levels. The London-based group tracks restrictions worldwide. They say the shutdown threatens the safety of people inside the country during ongoing unrest.
The blackout started on the evening of January 8. Metrics showed a sharp drop across providers. It followed days of growing protests. Demonstrations began on December 28, 2025, over the falling value of the rial and high living costs. Crowds soon called for changes to the government. Chants targeted leaders and referenced older symbols like the lion and sun flag.
Protests spread to many cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, and Karaj. Reports describe large gatherings after prayers or at night. Some turned violent, with fires set to vehicles or buildings. Security forces responded with tear gas, batons, and live fire in places. Rights groups like Amnesty International documented at least 28 deaths by early January, including children. Later accounts suggest higher numbers, but the blackout makes full counts hard.
NetBlocks posted updates regularly. At 12 hours, connectivity flatlined. By 24 hours, they noted it hid reports of brutality. At 48 hours, regime posts continued while most Iranians stayed silent. The latest graph shows no recovery as of Sunday morning.
Authorities blame outsiders for the unrest. State media shows support rallies and claims forces protect order. Officials call protesters rioters. The Supreme National Security Council handles decisions on force. Internet cuts limit coordination and outside views. Videos still leak out slowly, showing clashes or crowds.
International reactions grow. The UN fact-finding mission on Iran called for restored access and an end to violence. Human rights watchers worry about hidden crackdowns. US President Donald Trump said America stands ready to help protesters. He warned against killings. Some exiled figures urged more action from crowds.
Inside Iran, daily life suffers. People struggle to reach family or get news. Hospitals report injuries, but details stay limited. The blackout affects everything from banking to emergency calls in some areas.
Past protests saw similar cuts. In 2019 and 2022, shutdowns lasted days or weeks. This one ranks among the longest recent ones. NetBlocks calls it a direct threat at a critical time.
Events continue to unfold. Protests show no clear end. The government vows firmness. Outside observers wait for any lift in restrictions. For now, most information comes in pieces from those who find ways around blocks.
The situation remains serious. Safety concerns top the list for many watching from afar. Updates from groups like NetBlocks help track changes in access.
