Fact Check: "Iran's internet connectivity plummeted during escalating conflict with Israel."
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that Iran experienced a significant reduction in internet connectivity amid escalating military conflict with Israel. According to NBC News, two companies that monitor global internet connectivity, Kentinc and Netblocks, reported a sharp decline in Iran's internet access around 5:30 p.m. local time on June 12, 2025. This decline was attributed to the Iranian government's decision to restrict internet access in response to Israeli cyberattacks, as stated by Fatemeh Mohajerani, a spokesperson for the Iranian government. Historically, Iran has implemented internet blackouts during times of civil unrest or conflict, with a notable instance occurring in 2019 during widespread protests.
Reports also indicated that while internet access was reduced, it was not entirely blocked. Services such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and various app stores were reportedly inaccessible, further limiting communication for Iranians during the conflict (NBC News). Additionally, the Iranian National Cybersecurity Command claimed that Israel had launched a cyberwarfare campaign targeting Iran's digital infrastructure, although specific details were not provided (NBC News).
Analysis
The claim that Iran's internet connectivity plummeted during the conflict with Israel is supported by multiple credible sources. The data from Kentinc and Netblocks, which specialize in internet monitoring, adds a layer of reliability to the assertion that connectivity was significantly affected. The timing of the connectivity drop coincides with the escalation of military actions, reinforcing the connection between the conflict and the internet restrictions.
However, it is important to note that the Iranian government has a history of limiting internet access during crises, which complicates the narrative. While the connectivity drop was indeed severe, it was also a strategic move by the Iranian government to control information flow and limit external communication, as highlighted by Mohajerani's statements (NBC News). This suggests that while the claim is true, it is also influenced by Iran's internal policies regarding internet access during conflicts.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally high. NBC News is a well-established news organization known for its journalistic standards. The mention of Kentinc and Netblocks, both of which are recognized for their expertise in internet monitoring, further bolsters the credibility of the information presented.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "Iran's internet connectivity plummeted during escalating conflict with Israel" is accurate. Evidence from multiple credible sources indicates a significant reduction in internet access in Iran, primarily due to government-imposed restrictions in response to the ongoing conflict with Israel. While the Iranian government's historical practices of limiting internet access during crises play a role in this situation, the timing and scale of the connectivity issues align with the escalation of military actions.
