Iran has begun slowly restoring internet access to some users after nearly three weeks of one of the world’s toughest internet shutdowns. The country cut off internet on 8 January, aiming to control news around a government crackdown on protests. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the block was in response to "terrorist operations." Reports show some internet is back, but much of the population still lacks full access. Iran’s Shargh newspaper said officials claimed mobile internet was restored for some, but many users face intermittent and limited connectivity. Internet monitors like Kentik and NetBlocks note the internet is unstable, with major platforms blocked or allowed at various times. Doug Madory of Kentik said, "What we're seeing isn't a return to normal. Major platforms are being allowed and blocked at different times during the day." Experts believe the government allows only certain approved users online. Cybersecurity director Amir Rashidi said this may limit access to a select few, keeping full control. Human rights groups say the shutdown has greatly limited reporting on violent crackdowns. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reported 5,925 confirmed protester deaths, with many more possible. Shargh newspaper detailed that Iran's internet is now divided into several levels, from complete shutdown to partial access. Foreign apps like WhatsApp remain blocked, while some local platforms are allowed but raise privacy concerns. Some users can connect briefly using tools like Google Meet, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and FaceTime. Rashidi explained that partial access might enable VPN use temporarily, though the government tries hard to stop VPNs. Iran’s Communications Minister Sattar Hashemi said the shutdown costs the country about 5 trillion tomans ($35 million) daily. Some business users get just 20 to 30 minutes of unfiltered internet per day, under close supervision and strict identity checks. A Tehran Chamber of Commerce member described the system as "fully rationed and strictly time-limited," calling it "paralysing and humiliating". Traders must sometimes sign promises not to share protest content. Observers warn Iran is building a tightly controlled internet system, possibly never fully restoring open access. Madory said these patterns suggest the shutdown may last much longer. Stay tuned for more updates on Iran’s internet and protest situation.