Net access drops to nearly 1 percent amid Iran–Israel conflict, sparking fears of civilian risk, economic damage and global calls for emergency satellite connectivityTehran: Iran’s nationwide internet shutdown has entered its tenth consecutive day, leaving millions of citizens largely cut off from global communication and raising serious concerns about civilian safety during wartime. The prolonged blackout has disrupted the flow of information, limited contact with families abroad and intensified fears that people inside the country may be unable to receive timely warnings about potential attacks.
Internet monitoring organisation NetBlocks reported that ordinary users’ access to the global internet inside Iran has dropped to roughly one percent, effectively isolating most of the population from international websites, messaging platforms and social media networks.
The disruption marks the third nationwide internet shutdown since the start of the recent 12-day conflict, which has significantly restricted communication channels for civilians across the country.
The shutdown has made it extremely difficult for citizens to contact relatives, follow global news updates or receive emergency alerts about potential airstrikes.
Some users have described the move as potentially violating international obligations.
“If a government deliberately cuts communications while providing no warning or protection mechanisms for civilians, and this leads to widespread harm, it could be examined as a serious violation of international obligations and in some circumstances even a war crime,” one user wrote on social media platform X.
Critics argue that authorities have not introduced any nationwide civilian alert system to warn people about air raids or missile strikes.
“Restrictions on internet access and the circulation of incomplete information have made the true picture of the crisis more complex,” the report stated.
The newspaper warned that rumours, fragmented information and constant tension could significantly erode public confidence and intensify the sense of insecurity among citizens.
“When people face only the sound of fighter jets in silence and with limited information, the psychological impact of this crisis can be as significant as the physical destruction,” the article added.
Heavy signal jamming has reportedly made Persian-language satellite television broadcasts difficult to receive, leaving state television as the primary information source for many citizens who cannot afford VPN services.
Authorities have also reportedly sent mass text messages warning citizens that accessing international internet services could lead to legal consequences, while simultaneously distributing government-approved news and official narratives.
Despite the restrictions, critics say some officials continue to access the internet freely. Among them is Mohammad Marandi, an Iranian political analyst who has remained active online and continued giving interviews to international media outlets.
Diaspora activist Azadeh Davachi criticised the situation, writing that officials appear to maintain online access while the public remains disconnected.
International phone calls are also heavily restricted, often dropping within less than a minute, further worsening communication barriers.
The proposal suggests enabling Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity, which could allow ordinary mobile phones to connect directly to satellite networks and restore limited internet access inside Iran.
Activists argue that such a move could provide a vital communication lifeline for civilians during the ongoing conflict, particularly for those trying to reach family members or access emergency information.
