Amid Four-Day Internet Blackout, Iranians Turn to Clubhouse to Stay Connected
Tehran, Iran — After four days of a widespread internet blackout, Iranians have started finding ways to stay connected with the outside world — and one app emerged as a beacon of hope: Clubhouse.
For four long days, millions across Iran were cut off from the global internet as authorities imposed tight restrictions following rising tensions and security concerns. The internet was suddenly restored late Friday night, allowing some Iranians to briefly access servers and send messages, although connections remained slow and highly unstable.
⚡️ Why Did Iran Block the Internet?
Iran’s government announced that it had drastically restricted internet access starting Wednesday, citing the threat of cyber attacks and national security concerns. According to government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani, international calls were also blocked as a precaution, forcing many Iranians to make costly direct calls to relatives and friends overseas — a price that few can afford.
🌐 The Role of Clubhouse Amid the Blackout
While most social media platforms remained out of reach, tech-savvy Iranians turned to Clubhouse, an audio app that became a vital channel for communication. Despite government crackdowns, roughly 1,700 Iranians managed to connect with friends and loved ones across borders using the app.
For hours, Iranians at home shared phone numbers and names with friends and relatives abroad, allowing them to dial into Clubhouse rooms and reunite with loved ones in moments of crisis.
🔐 The VPN Challenge
Although many attempted to bypass the restrictions using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), the widespread clampdown and disruptions caused by the Israel-Iran conflict made even those connections highly unreliable.
📱 A Cautious Return of Connectivity
By Saturday, internet services started slowly returning across Iran, but authorities warned citizens to exercise caution online. Many fear that connections could be temporary or subject to future shutdowns as tensions continue to rise.
🌍 A Glimpse of Hope Amid Uncertainty
For countless Iranians, Clubhouse became more than an app — it was a lifeline, a bridge across borders when almost every other avenue of communication was closed. Amid fears and uncertainty, this online space offered a rare chance for families and friends to stay connected, reminding the world of the resilience and ingenuity of the Iranian people.
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