Digital Kill Switch: Iran’s Internet Blackout Enters 60th Hour Amid Fears of a ‘Massacre’

The Islamic Republic of Iran has effectively vanished from the global digital map. As of Sunday, January 11, 2026, a nationwide internet blackout has entered its third day, cutting off more than 85 million people from the outside world. Independent monitor NetBlocks confirmed that connectivity has plummeted to less than 2% of ordinary levels, describing the disruption as a “digital kill switch” designed to facilitate a lethal crackdown on the largest anti-government protests since 2022.¹

“A War Against Its Own Population”

The shutdown, which began in earnest on Thursday night, January 8, follows two weeks of escalating unrest triggered by a currency collapse and soaring inflation.² Unlike previous disruptions that targeted specific mobile networks or regions, this blackout is near-total, impacting landlines, mobile data, and even banking services.³+1

“This is Iran’s war against its own population using digital means,” Alp Toker, CEO of NetBlocks, told Fox News.⁴ He warned that the “kill switch” is an intentional measure to conceal human rights abuses. “There is an attempt by the regime to cover up crimes… this blackout could potentially last for days or weeks.”⁵+1

Rising Death Toll and Legal Threats

With the country in “digital darkness,” human rights organizations are struggling to verify reports of mass killings.⁶

• Casualty Reports: The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has confirmed at least 116 deaths and over 2,600 arrests since December 28.⁷ However, unverified reports from medical staff in Tehran suggest the number of fatalities could already exceed 200.⁸+1
• Death Penalty Warning: On Saturday, Iran’s Attorney General, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, declared that any participation in the protests would be treated as Moharebeh (Enmity against God)—a charge that carries the death penalty under Islamic law.⁹

Trump’s Warning: “USA Stands Ready”

The blackout has not stopped U.S. President Donald Trump from weighing in on the crisis.¹⁰ In a post on Truth Social late Saturday, Trump expressed solidarity with the movement.

“Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”

Trump had previously warned Iranian leaders that they would face “hell to pay” if they resorted to the mass killings seen in 2019.¹¹ Despite the internet block, protesters in major cities like Mashhad and Tehran reportedly continue to gather, utilizing localized mesh networks and satellite links to coordinate.¹²+1

Quick Stats: Iran Crisis (As of Jan 11, 2026)