Global community must act against internet blackout in iran to prevent crimes in darkness

Hengaw – Thursday, March 19, 2026

Following the widespread and systematic shutdown of the internet across Iran since the outbreak of war between Iran, Israel, and the United States, people across the country have once again been plunged into near-total digital darkness. This is occurring at a time when, under wartime conditions, civilians are more dependent than ever on internet access for communication, access to vital information, and managing essential aspects of daily life.

Moreover, the ability to report on internal security conditions and document ongoing repression has been severely restricted due to the near-total disruption of internet connectivity.

According to NetBlocks, the internet blackout in Iran has now entered its twentieth consecutive day. After more than 452 hours, access to the global internet remains unavailable to the vast majority of the population, with only limited and restricted access available to a small number of users.

Despite these constraints, the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights has confirmed, through its sources, the arrest of several individuals who had access to free internet via satellite services such as Starlink. Iranian authorities have intensified the security atmosphere under wartime conditions and are responding to any form of access to open internet with severe security measures.

Drawing on previous experiences, including the November 2019 protests and the December 2025 protests, Hengaw warns that prolonged and complete internet shutdowns during times of crisis are not only tools for controlling public perception and expanding security control, but also serve as a cover for organized and systematic abuses. The organization cautions that Iranian authorities may once again be using “total digital darkness” to conceal intensified repression.

In light of these developments, the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights calls on the global community, the European Union, and all international human rights bodies to move beyond symbolic statements and take immediate, concrete action to prevent further humanitarian harm in Iran:

Breaking the digital blockade: Facilitate access to satellite internet and censorship-circumvention tools for people inside Iran to ensure documentation of events and prevent information blackouts.

Maximum diplomatic pressure: Issue clear warnings to Iranian authorities that prolonged internet shutdowns may be interpreted as a precursor to large-scale human rights violations and will carry serious international consequences.

Supporting information flow: Provide practical support to Iranian civil society to maintain communication channels and prevent the silencing of independent voices.