Iran plans permanent break from global internet, say activists
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- Iran plans to permanently sever most citizens from the global internet by 2026, allowing only government-vetted individuals access to a filtered version, while others will be restricted to a national intranet isolated from the broader web.
- This move follows a severe internet shutdown since January amid anti-regime protests, marking one of the longest and strictest blackouts in history, with the government aiming to maintain tight online control.
- The national internet, developed since 2009, offers limited domestic services and is heavily monitored, with infrastructure and censorship technology reportedly supported by Chinese exports enabling extensive traffic filtering and surveillance.
- Iran’s strategy includes forcing businesses to localize data centers and comply with government controls, balancing economic interests with authoritarian internet restrictions.
- Experts warn
