In a significant development, Iranians are cautiously reconnecting to the internet after enduring months of near-total isolation due to government-imposed restrictions. This partial restoration of online access comes after President Masoud Pezeshkian ordered the authorities to restore connectivity, as reported by Iranian official media citing the Ministry of Communications.

Challenges and Skepticism

Despite the restoration, many Iranians remain skeptical and continue to face challenges in accessing the internet freely. A resident of Tehran, speaking anonymously due to security concerns, mentioned that while they are connected, the use of VPNs remains necessary. This sentiment of skepticism is echoed by others who view the limited return of access as inadequate.

One Iranian woman, who had participated in anti-government protests, expressed her frustration on social media, criticizing the regime’s handling of internet access. She referred to the restored internet as the ‘filternet’ and compared it unfavorably to the internet speeds and freedoms enjoyed in countries like South Korea and Japan.

Symbolic Acts of Defiance

Despite the restrictions, some Iranians have used the moment to demonstrate resilience. Many have taken to Instagram to post selfies, marking their return to the online world after weeks of enforced silence. This act of defiance underscores the determination of ordinary citizens to be seen and heard, even under restrictive conditions.

The internet shutdown, which began in late December 2025, was initially a response to mass anti-government demonstrations driven by economic turmoil, including surging inflation and currency collapse. As protests grew, the government intensified restrictions, leading to what monitoring group NetBlocks described as the longest nationwide internet shutdown in modern history.

Continued Restrictions and Inequality

While some connectivity has been restored, significant barriers remain. According to NetBlocks, internet filtering systems, known locally as the ‘filternet,’ are still active, and platforms like WhatsApp require circumvention tools for access. The centralized nature of Iran’s internet governance, overseen by the Supreme Council for Cyberspace, contributes to deep inequalities in access. While a few Iranians use smuggled Starlink terminals or costly VPNs, most ordinary citizens face limited and uncertain connectivity.

As the situation develops, the Iranian government’s approach to internet access remains a critical issue, impacting the daily lives of its citizens and their ability to communicate freely with the outside world.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.