Iran is grappling with a near-total internet blackout affecting its population of over 90 million, a situation that has unfolded against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions with the U.S. and Israel. The country has been offline for over 48 hours, with connectivity reportedly plummeting to approximately 1% of normal levels, according to data from the independent internet watchdog NetBlocks.
NetBlocks has characterized the shutdown as a “regime-imposed” nationwide action, although official comment from the Iranian government has been absent. This tactic is not new for the regime; a similar, extended shutdown in January reportedly lasted for several weeks and was associated with masking human rights violations amidst widespread protests. Historically, Iran has resorted to internet disruptions during periods of civil unrest and conflict.
While the government has remained silent, internet analyst Doug Madory suggested that the minimal online activity observed might be attributed to a new government system of whitelisting. This approach could involve creating exceptions for specific groups loyal to the government, thereby maintaining limited control and communication channels.
Adding another layer to the situation, reports indicate that U.S. and Israeli actors may be conducting cyberattacks on Iranian internet infrastructure, potentially in conjunction with airstrikes. A Reuters report highlighted that multiple government-aligned Iranian news websites have been targeted by hacks and cyberattacks. Even a popular religious calendar application, BadeSaba Calendar, with millions of downloads, was reportedly compromised, displaying messages urging armed forces to disarm and join the people, and declaring “It’s time for reckoning.” While U.S. Cyber Command has not responded to requests for comment, the extent of these alleged cyber operations underscores the evolving nature of modern conflict, where digital fronts are as critical as physical ones. This follows an incident in January where Iranian state television was reportedly hacked, briefly broadcasting speeches by U.S. figures calling for revolt.
As Iran engages in retaliatory strikes and drone attacks against U.S. and allied targets in the Middle East, concerns are mounting over potential cyber retaliation from Iranian-aligned groups. Analysts at CrowdStrike have indicated they are observing activity consistent with Iranian-aligned threat actors and hacktivist groups initiating reconnaissance and cyberattacks. These preparatory actions often precede more aggressive operations. In previous conflicts, Iranian cyber actors have been known to align their activities with broader strategic objectives, aiming to increase pressure and visibility on targets within critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, finance, telecommunications, and healthcare. The interconnectedness of these digital and physical arenas suggests a complex and potentially volatile landscape ahead.
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