Iran Implements Tiered Internet Access Following US-Israeli Strikes on February 28, 2026

Iran's internet shutdown, initiated after US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, has evolved into a lasting system of differentiated access as of April 16, 2026. Le Monde reported that Tehran is implementing this tiered structure, where global internet access is granted as a privilege to individuals based on their proximity to the regime.

In some cases, access is reserved for specific groups only after obtaining individual authorization from the authorities.

The shutdown began on February 28, 2026, immediately following the US-Israeli strikes, and is no longer considered a temporary measure. Since the start of the war on that date, political leaders, certain journalists, and figures close to the authorities in Iran have possessed a 'white SIM card' allowing unrestricted internet access.

Le Monde reported that this marks a departure from traditional censorship to a discriminatory system.

The vast majority of Iranians have been cut off from the outside world since February 28, 2026. A minority of Iranians has circumvented these internet restrictions using VPNs purchased on the black market at high prices. Le Monde noted that these Virtual Private Networks allow users to bypass blocks by connecting through other countries, though they come with risks of increased surveillance.

Starlink satellite dishes, which are banned in Iran, have also been used by some to evade restrictions, potentially leading to espionage charges. Access to the global internet in Iran depends on government approval, reflecting a stratified and hierarchical approach. Le Monde reported from Tehran on April 16, 2026, highlighting how the system reserves privileges for those aligned with the regime.