Iran has cut off internet access nationwide as demonstrations sparked by economic grievances and political tensions continue to spread, according to monitoring group NetBlocks. the move, coinciding with a call for restraint from President Ebrahim Raisi, represents a notable escalation in the government’s response to protests that began earlier this month and have reportedly reached multiple cities and regions[[1]]. This latest shutdown follows a pattern of internet restrictions utilized by Iranian authorities during periods of unrest[[2]], effectively limiting the flow of facts both within and outside the country[[3]].
Published On 8/1/2026
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آخر تحديث: 21:29 (توقيت مكة)
Iran is experiencing a nationwide internet shutdown as protests continue across the country, according to monitoring group NetBlocks. The disruption comes as President Ebrahim Raisi called for restraint in dealing with the demonstrations.
NetBlocks reported in a statement posted to social media that “real-time data shows Iran is now in the midst of a complete national internet shutdown.”
The organization added that this action follows “a series of escalating digital censorship measures targeting protesters across the country, obstructing people’s access to information at a critical time.”
Clashes Reported in Multiple Areas
President Raisi urged “maximum self-control” in handling the protests, which have entered their twelfth day, amid reports of clashes in several areas. The ongoing demonstrations reflect widespread discontent over economic conditions in Iran, a key regional player.
“Any violent or coercive behavior must be avoided,” Raisi said in a statement published on his website, calling for “maximum self-control” and emphasizing the importance of “dialogue, engagement, and listening to the demands of the people.”
Earlier, Iranian state media reported that a police officer was stabbed and killed during unrest near the capital Tehran, as protests over the rising cost of living in Iran continued for a twelfth day.
The Fars News Agency reported that “Shahin Dehghan,” a police officer in the city of Malard, west of Tehran, was killed by stabbing “while attempting to control the unrest in the area.” Authorities are working to identify the perpetrators.
With the death of the officer, the number of security forces killed since the protests began has risen to four, in addition to 34 protesters, according to a report by the Iranian Human Rights Activists News Agency, based in the United States.
Official reports, however, state the death toll is significantly lower.
