January 19, 2026 | 11:15 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Iranian government has begun easing internet and communication restrictions after a wave of violent protests over economic hardship that erupted earlier this month.
The Fars news agency reported on Saturday, January 17, that the rollback is being implemented gradually, in line with developments in the country’s security situation.
According to Anadolu, citing Iranian security officials, the decision followed the successful control of the protests and the arrest of several key figures labeled as members of a terrorist group.
Officials noted that “internet restrictions significantly weaken the internal connections of opposition networks abroad and prevent terror operations.”
Phased Restoration
The government’s recovery plan, tied to security conditions, began with the reactivation of short message services (SMS).
The next stages involve restoring full access to the national internet network and domestic applications, with international internet access expected to return in the final phase.
Local sources confirmed that access to domestic messaging apps, including Eita and Bale, has been restored after several days of disruption. However, independent monitors report that overall connectivity remains severely limited.
NetBlocks, a global internet monitoring organization, noted a slight increase in connectivity on Saturday morning, but overall internet access remains at roughly 2 percent of normal levels.
The group warned that the majority of Iranians are still unable to connect.
Background: Protests and Crackdown
Communication restrictions were imposed after protests over economic pressure on January 8 turned violent. According to Al Jazeera, Iran is now beginning to relax the curbs that were introduced after more than two weeks of deadly demonstrations.
The Iranian government has not released official figures on casualties. However, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported at least 3,090 deaths, 2,055 injuries, and 22,123 detentions nationwide since the unrest began.
Iranian officials have maintained that the government is aware of its human rights obligations and has sought to exercise restraint while carrying out its duty to protect citizens and maintain public order and national security.
Amid the unrest, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, calling him a “villain” for the casualties, damage, and perceived interference in the protests.
“The latest anti-Iran instigation is different because the U.S. president is directly involved,” Khamenei said on Saturday.
Read: Iran Unrest Death Toll Hits at Least 5,000
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