The internet shutdowns in Iran have become a primary driver contributing to the widespread collapse of digital online businesses and undermining the livelihood of millions of Iranians, especially women who are employed in online micro-businesses. Internet shutdowns, which are occurring more regularly under the pretext of maintaining “public security” and enforced by high-level authorities such as the Supreme National Security Council, in response to crises and popular protests.
The 12-day war which began on June 7, 2025, was accompanied by a near-total national internet blackout. Over 40% of companies lost between 25% to 50% of their revenue, and nearly half reported losses exceeding 50%. With an estimated damage of $1.5 million for every hour of disruption and at least 400,000 to one million online businesses affected.
Now, only six months after the massive economic shock of the 12-day war, a renewed internet blackout which began on January 8, 2026, in response to national protests, sparked by the rapid devaluation of Iran’s currency, has dealt another blow to the digital economy. The shutdown has obliterated the few remaining avenues for covering living costs for many women, freelancers, and workers within Iran’s tech ecosystem.
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