In Iran, internet access becomes a luxury for the few

Iran’s National Security Council approved a plan to provide paid internet access to certain groups under daily limits for foreign websites and international data traffic. Internet access in Iran has been shut down since February 28 following US and Israeli attacks. “Internet Pro” is not a technical upgrade, but a paid option that allows standard internet access that bypasses the shutdown block. Many major platforms such as Instagram, X, and YouTube remain unusable for many users even with Internet Pro unless they use a VPN. The plan is presented as a way to prevent disruptions to economic activity and ensure business communication during crises. The shutdown has lasted more than 80 days and is described as the longest in Iran, used to disrupt communication and isolate people from the outside world.

"Iran's National Security Council recently approved a plan to grant certain groups paid internet access, albeit with a daily usage limit on foreign websites and international data traffic. The internet in Iran has been shut down since the US and Israel launched attacks on February 28. The so-called “Internet Pro” does not refer to a technical upgrade but allows users standard internet access that bypasses the block."

"According to journalist and internet researcher Solmaz Eikder, major platforms like Instagram, X, and YouTubewhich have long been blocked in Iranstill cannot be used even by many Internet Pro users without using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Eikder has been living in exile in Europe for five years. She works for “Filterban,” a research initiative focusing on internet censorship, digital repression and surveillance in Iran."

"The internet in Iran has been shut down since the US-Israeli attacks on February 28. The shutdown, which has now lasted for more than 80 days, is the longest yet in Iran, but not the first of its kind. For years, the Iranian security apparatus has used this method primarily to disrupt communication between Iranians while cutting off the outside world. This most recently occurred during the nationwide protests in January, which the regime brutally suppressed."

"According to government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohadscherani, Internet Pro is intended to “prevent disruptions to economic activity and ensure business communication in times of crisis.” The plan is offered to certain professional groups, such as members of the Chamber of Comme"

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