Iran Partially Restores Internet Access with Selective Criteria

Iran has partially lifted internet restrictions that were imposed nationwide since January 8, 2026, following protests in the country. The rollback permits access to online spaces for voices that support the government, while restrictions continue for the majority of the population.

A photograph from January 24, 2026, shows an online teacher named Nazafarin working on her laptop at home in Tehran, amid the ongoing restrictions. The image was captured after the initial shutdown and distributed by WANA via Reuters.

the new approach, the government has eased restrictions selectively. This allows certain individuals to engage online, while broader access remains limited. The policy has been described in reports as creating a distinction based on users' stances toward the government.