In Iran, internet blackouts and digital outages are not uncommon, with the theocratic regime often cutting off access during widespread anti-government protests. During a wave of demonstrations in January that reportedly left thousands dead due to brutal security crackdowns, authorities imposed an internet blackout lasting several weeks. This pattern was seen again during a recent 12-day conflict with Israel in June, highlighting the regime's tactics to control information flow when public unrest arises.

Since February 28, coinciding with a military offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran, connectivity has significantly deteriorated, with Iranian authorities reinstating internet cuts. As of Thursday, net monitoring platform NetBlocks recorded over 120 hours of continuous blackout, with connectivity stabilizing at about 1% of normal levels. Such disruptions have left Iranians unable to perform even basic online tasks like using Google Maps or accessing information websites, plunging the nation into a significant information void.

The implications of these digital silences are profound; families are left in the dark about the safety of loved ones, leading to distressing questions like 'Are my parents alive?'. As the Iranian government continues to enforce restrictions on the internet during times of conflict, the psychological toll on citizens, as well as the broader impact on human rights and communication, raises urgent concerns for both local and international observers.