Amnesty condemns Iran’s internet shutdown, now over 1000 hours 

International, Middle East

INTERNATIONAL, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Amnesty International has condemned the Islamic Republic of Iran for the continued internet shutdown in the Persian Gulf country, describing it as a violation of basic human rights.

The rights group, in a statement on Friday, noted that citizens have lived under “digital darkness” for more than 1,000 hours, stressing that internet access is indispensable in times of conflict and unrest. Amnesty called on the authorities to immediately restore connectivity.

Authorities cut off more than 90 million people from the outside world on 28 February, preventing them from accessing essential information and contacting loved ones. The blackout began after nationwide protests over the worsening economy erupted on 1 February 2026, and has since deepened during the ongoing war with the United States and Israel.

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According to Amnesty, the shutdown has severely affected individuals and businesses, compounding hardship as the blackout persists. The organisation reiterated that internet access is a fundamental right and urged Tehran to restore services without delay.