In a surprising turn of events, some Iranians have managed to reconnect to the internet after enduring a nearly complete blackout for four days. As of Friday, individuals have begun to access fragile connections by switching servers or through sheer luck, revealing the resilience of the population amidst intense government restrictions.
Though connectivity has returned, many citizens express skepticism about its stability. "It feels like we’re in a dark cave,” shared Arta, an Iranian who fled Tehran earlier in the week and was able to send a few brief messages over social media upon regaining access. To protect his identity from potential government scrutiny, he requested that his last name remain undisclosed.
Virtual private networks, or VPNs, are widely used in Iran to circumvent internet controls imposed by the authorities, but many of these services have faced disruptions since the onset of recent military actions. As internet access gradually resumes, VPN providers are advising their users to proceed with caution. One organizer warned subscribers through a popular messaging platform, urging them not to share the server link to prevent overloading their operations.
While there is a flicker of connection for some, the risks associated with continued internet usage remain palpable, forcing many to navigate a precarious digital landscape filled with uncertainty and the looming threat of increased state authority against dissenting voices.
