US Struggles to Restore Iranian Internet Access Despite Technical Capabilities
Original: The US Can Put People on the Moon. Why Can’t It Get Iranians Online?
Why This Matters
Highlights critical role of internet freedom in geopolitical conflicts and information warfare
Former Washington Post Tehran bureau chief Jason Rezaian discusses Iran's internet blackouts during ongoing US-Iran conflict. Rezaian, who was imprisoned by Iran for espionage in 2014-2016, argues internet access is crucial for Iranian transformation but US lacks effective strategy.
Jason Rezaian, former Washington Post Tehran bureau chief imprisoned by Iran for nearly two years on espionage charges, discusses the current US-Iran conflict in a WIRED podcast interview. Rezaian, now director of press freedom initiatives at The Washington Post, emphasizes that US-Iran tensions have persisted since 1979. He notes that Iranian internet blackouts prevent the world from hearing from Iran's 93 million inhabitants during the conflict. The journalist argues that while the US possesses advanced technical capabilities, it has failed to effectively address Iran's internet restrictions that suppress its population. Rezaian suggests President Trump appears reluctant to escalate further military action against Iran, citing economic concerns at home. He highlights how internet access could be transformative for Iran but criticizes the US government's inadequate response to connectivity issues.