After almost three months of being cut off from the world, internet access was partially restored in Iran starting on Tuesday. While some rejoice at finally being reconnected and able to check in on their loved ones, many complain about the persistent slowness in connectivity and doubt a complete restoration will happen any time soon.
Mina* was overjoyed as she waited for the big moment on Tuesday when she might be reconnected to the world beyond Iran. “It might sound ridiculous, but I sat glued to my screen for hours waiting for it to come back. For me, being connected is essential,” says the freelance graphic designer, who works on advertising and social media promotions in Tehran. “I need to use AI every day and stay up to date on the latest tools; I watch a lot of YouTube tutorials … I need a real connection.”
