Iran Internet Blackout Enters 56th Day, Longest Ever Recorded Globally
Tehran rejects US-proposed ceasefire extension as death toll from US-Israeli operations reaches 3,375
Quick Look
- Iran's internet connectivity has been severed for 56 days, marking the longest nationwide blackout ever recorded globally with over 1,320 hours of disconnection.
- The blackout coincides with the aftermath of US-Israel operations launched February 28, which killed 3,375 Iranians over 40 days.
- Despite Trump's April 21 announcement extending the ceasefire, Tehran has rejected the unilateral extension and prioritizes its own interests.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Iran has experienced extended internet blackouts during previous periods of unrest, but the current 56-day blackout surpasses all previous records globally. The shutdown coincides with the aftermath of US-Israel military operations that killed thousands of Iranians.
LONDON, April 24. /TASS/. Internet connectivity in Iran has been almost completely absent for more than 55 days, the international monitoring service NetBlocks reported. "It's now the 56th day of Iran's internet blackout, with international connectivity severed for over 1320 hours," the service wrote on X. The shutdown is the longest nationwide blackout ever recorded globally. On February 28, the US and Israel launched a large-scale operation against Iran. On April 7, US President Donald Trump announced a two-week mutual ceasefire with Tehran. According to the Iranian side, a total of 3,375 Iranians died as a result of US and Israeli attacks over the 40 days of war. On April 11, Iran and the US held several rounds of talks in Islamabad. Both Tehran and Washington reported that the parties failed to reach an agreement on a long-term settlement due to a number of contradictions. On April 21, the US leader announced on Truth Social that Washington intends to extend the ceasefire with Iran, which was set to expire in a few hours. According to the Iranian state broadcaster, Tehran does not intend to comply with Washington's unilaterally announced extension of the ceasefire and will prioritize its own interests.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Iran will likely maintain internet restrictions while diplomatic negotiations continue
Very likely · Within weeks
Further Iran-US negotiations may occur in coming weeks
Likely · Within weeks
International pressure on Iran to restore internet connectivity will intensify
Likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- What is the specific technical method being used to achieve the nationwide blackout?
- Are there any humanitarian concerns regarding the blackout's impact on medical services?
- Will Iran restore internet connectivity, and if so, when?
- What are the specific contradictions that prevented a long-term settlement in Islamabad talks?
