Iranian Official Says Country Will End Internet Blackouts Even in Crises

Mohammad Hatamizadeh, deputy for legal affairs, government, parliament, and provinces at Iran’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, said Wednesday in Kermanshah province that the country will no longer cut off the internet during crises.

“The country has reached a level of maturity where even in severe crises and turmoil, it can be managed without cutting off the internet, and we will no longer witness internet shutdowns,” he said. Hatamizadeh added that returning to the people and gaining their satisfaction must be the main priority of executive bodies, and that technology can serve as a tool for transparency, justice, and direct communication between citizens and the government.

The statement follows the nearly 90-day internet blackout that began after the start of Operation Epic Fury/Roaring Lion. The blackout was partially lifted beginning last month. 3 billion.

Iran has used nationwide internet blackouts during periods of domestic unrest to limit the flow of information and hinder organized dissent. The most recent blackout followed the pattern of earlier shutdowns imposed during major protests.