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Iran 2026 Protests: Internet Blackout Begins January 8 with Brief Restoration Windows
Iran imposed a near-total internet shutdown on January 8, 2026, amid nationwide protests, lasting over 180 hours by January 16 with brief connectivity on January 9; protests continued despite the blackout.
Why It Matters
The shutdown isolated protesters from global communication during a deadly crackdown, exceeding prior blackouts and highlighting regime control tactics amid reports of thousands killed.
Timeline
6 Events
Regime announces phased internet restoration plan
January 17, 2026
Phased plan to lift shutdown implemented, but without full unfettered access for all Iranians.
Protests continue on day 20 with blackout over 180 hours
January 15, 2026
Nationwide uprising persists for 20 days; internet blackout exceeds 180 hours; clashes in cities like Rafsanjan, Kermanshah; security forces use firearms.
Brief windows of internet connectivity
January 9, 2026, starting 10:00 UTC
Limited internal traffic returns briefly at low volumes, less than 0.01% of pre-shutdown peaks, but does not last.
Deadly crackdown during initial blackout days
January 8, 2026
At least 12,000 killed in crackdown, much during internet shutdown on January 8 and 9.
Complete internet shutdown begins
January 8, 2026, 18:45 UTC
Internet connectivity plummets to zero as access to global internet severed amid protests.
Protests intensify with early traffic anomalies
January 2026
Internet traffic anomalies observed in first few days of 2026 ahead of full shutdown.