Iran announces restrictions on internet access; NetBlocks reports internet blackout

Iran announced Wednesday heavier internet curbs, accusing Israel of misusing the network for military purposes amid ongoing fighting between the longtime foes.

“Temporary restrictions have been imposed on users’ access to the internet,” the communication ministry said in a statement carried by the state-linked Fars news agency, adding that the decision was due to “the aggressor’s abuse of the country’s communication network for military purposes.”

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NetBlocks, a London-based online watchdog , said Iran was in a “near-total national internet blackout” on Wednesday, as tensions deepened between Tehran and Israel.

“Live network data show Iran is now in the midst of a near-total national internet blackout; the incident follows a series of earlier partial disruptions and comes amid escalating military tensions with Israel after days of back-and-forth missile strikes,” NetBlocks wrote on X.

Iran already began restricting the internet after Israel’s surprise attack on Friday.

With AFP

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