Iran's Internet Access Faces Unprecedented Challenges Amid Conflict

In the wake of recent US and Israeli missile strikes that killed Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, the country has experienced a near-total internet blackout. This has left the general populace with access only to Iran's National Information Network (NIN), a domestic intranet designed to maintain daily life and economic activities during global connectivity disruptions. While the Iranian government, military, and a select few have access to the global internet, the majority of Iranians rely on VPNs and other proxy networks to circumvent restrictions. However, these tools are ineffective during complete shutdowns.

Since the strikes on February 28, internet traffic leaving Iran has plummeted by 99 percent, with only minimal connectivity remaining for those with privileged access. Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at Kentik, notes that this limited connectivity is subject to further disruptions due to technical failures, likely caused by ongoing air strikes. The damage to critical infrastructure means that even if the government lifts the shutdown, connectivity issues may persist.

Over the past decade, Iran has developed sophisticated methods to control and censor internet access, including the NIN and its suite of applications. These platforms are heavily monitored and serve as tools for surveillance and information control. During the current shutdown, the government has promoted a domestic search engine and warned citizens against accessing the global internet, threatening legal action.

The NIN's design allows selective internet access for elites, tech companies, and universities, excluding the general population. This tiered access also extends to state-backed news and propaganda. An analysis by Factnameh, an Iranian fact-checking organization, found that regime-linked Telegram channels remained active during the shutdown, often exaggerating reports of Iranian missile strikes while omitting rumors about Khamenei's death.

Despite these restrictions, Iranian civil society groups and activists have developed methods to maintain connectivity and share information internationally. This includes smuggling Starlink satellite systems into the country and using the peer-to-peer platform Conduit, developed by Psiphon, to access the internet. Conduit routes encrypted traffic through a network of volunteer devices worldwide, and despite funding challenges, it remains a vital tool for Iranians seeking global connectivity.

Psiphon reports that millions of Iranians used its network in January and February, although recent shutdowns have drastically limited access. Nonetheless, tens of thousands of Iranians continue to use Conduit daily. The ongoing conflict and internet restrictions have left Iran's future connectivity uncertain, with the NIN and external internet access hanging in the balance as the situation evolves.