Iran Restores Internet Access Amid Fragile Ceasefire and Escalating Rhetoric

Iranian authorities have begun the gradual restoration of nationwide internet services following a monthslong shutdown described as a wartime necessity. The blackout, which targeted fixed broadband in its initial recovery phase, is estimated to have cost the Iranian economy between $30 million and $40 million per day. The restoration comes at a sensitive diplomatic juncture, as Iranian officials and the Revolutionary Guard harden their rhetoric following recent U.S. strikes in southern Iran. Tehran has labeled the strikes a "gross ceasefire violation," while the Trump administration maintains the actions were defensive measures against missile launch sites and minelaying boats. Diplomatic efforts remain in a state of flux. While Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have departed Qatar following high-level discussions, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and extend the current ceasefire framework would likely take several more days. The regional dimension of the conflict has also intensified, with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warning neighboring countries that their territory will no longer serve as a "shield" for U.S. military assets, signaling an effort to deter regional alignment with Washington.