Iran’s internet flickers back to life as citizens balance caution with protest

Iranians greeted partial internet restoration after an 88‑day nationwide blackout imposed by authorities, with many users still needing VPNs to bypass active filtering. While some posted selfies and messages of defiance, others expressed frustration that access remains limited and not fully open. NetBlocks described the move as the longest modern‑history shutdown, and observers say the government’s centralized control over internet governance complicates the reopening. The situation signals a potential shift, but widespread connectivity and unrestricted access remain uncertain.