In brief
After nearly three weeks of one of the most extreme internet shutdowns in history aimed at quelling protests, some Iranians are gaining partial access to the internet. However, reports suggest that connections are intermittent and heavily regulated, indicating that the Iranian government is selectively controlling who can go online amidst ongoing unrest. Human rights organizations have condemned the situation, stating that this strategy serves to limit information related to the recent crackdown on protests, with thousands already reported dead.
Nearly three weeks into one of the most extreme internet shutdowns in history, some of Iran's 92 million citizens are beginning to get back online - but access appears to be tightly controlled.
The country cut off internet access on 8 January, in what is widely seen as an attempt to stem the flow of information about a government crackdown on protesters.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the internet was blocked in response to what he described as terrorist operations.
Now there is evidence that some internet access has returned - but independent analysis indicates much of the country is still effectively cut off from the outside world.
Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper has reported that some officials had claimed mobile internet had been restored.
However, it said many users still do not have full access and can only connect intermittently and for very limited periods, often after repeated attempts.
Firms which monitor web traffic say there are signs of the internet being used inconsistently, raising questions about who is able to connect, and under what conditions.
What we're seeing isn't a return to normal, said Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at network intelligence firm Kentik.
Human rights organisations say this control over internet access has played a big role in limiting information about the crackdown on protesters, with the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirming the deaths of 5,925 protesters as of 26 January.
Internet rights observers suggest that the unrest provided the Iranian authorities an opportunity to tighten control over the internet, breaking it down into multiple access levels that limit communication with the outside world.
Despite selective connections being restored, some foreign messaging apps, including WhatsApp, remain restricted, leading to concerns over privacy and security with the available local alternatives.
Economically, the internet shutdown has cost Iran nearly five trillion tomans ($35 million) per day, prompting authorities to introduce controlled forms of internet access for businesses under significant supervision.
Overall, the situation remains precarious, with many Iranians unable to access necessary online services as authorities maintain strict control over information flow.
