Fact Check: Iran's internet blackout has lasted over 24 hours, isolating the country.

Fact Check: "Iran's internet blackout has lasted over 24 hours, isolating the country."

What We Know

Iran has been experiencing a significant internet blackout, which has reportedly lasted over 36 hours as of the latest reports. According to NetBlocks.org, an internet-access advocacy group, Iran was disconnected from the global internet for this duration, with connectivity levels dropping to only a few percentage points of normal. This blackout has left the Iranian population largely isolated, unable to communicate with the outside world or even within the country. The blackout coincides with ongoing military conflict between Israel and Iran, which began on June 13, 2025, leading to heightened state control over information and communication channels.

The Iranian government has claimed that the internet shutdown was implemented to protect against potential cyberattacks, as stated in a report by TechCrunch. However, this move has been interpreted by many as a tactic to control the flow of information during a time of crisis, as noted by Marwa Fatafta from Access Now, who emphasized the regime's tight control over information dissemination (AP News).

Analysis

The claim that Iran's internet blackout has lasted over 24 hours is supported by multiple credible sources. The report from AP News details the experiences of Iranians during the blackout, highlighting the psychological impact of being cut off from communication amid a conflict. The information provided by NetBlocks.org is particularly relevant, as it specializes in monitoring internet access and has documented the extent of the blackout.

Additionally, the assertion that the blackout serves as a form of psychological warfare aligns with the observations of experts in digital rights and freedom of information. The Iranian government's rationale for the blackout, citing cybersecurity concerns, appears to be a common justification used by authoritarian regimes to limit access to information during periods of unrest (TechCrunch). This context reinforces the reliability of the information regarding the duration and implications of the blackout.

While the Iranian government may present its actions as protective measures, the broader implications for civil liberties and communication are significant. The blackout has left many citizens in the dark about the ongoing conflict and has hindered their ability to connect with loved ones, further exacerbating the situation.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "Iran's internet blackout has lasted over 24 hours, isolating the country" is accurate. Multiple sources confirm that the blackout has persisted for over 36 hours, severely restricting communication both within Iran and with the outside world. The evidence indicates that this action is part of a broader strategy by the Iranian government to control information during a time of conflict, which is consistent with historical patterns of internet censorship in the country.

Fact Check: Iran's internet blackout has lasted over 24 hours, isolating the country.