Cloudflare Reports Internet Disruptions from Conflicts

In its latest report, Cloudflare detailed severe internet disruptions in Q1 2026, attributed to a combination of government restrictions, conflict, and technical failures. Notably, Iran experienced an extensive 61-day internet blackout following escalating tensions with Israel and the U.S., alongside government-imposed shutdowns linked to internal protests. These incidents resulted in diminished traffic across Iranian networks, with Cloudflare observing a dramatic decrease from normal operating levels to less than 1% as access was systematically filtered and interrupted.

The implications of these disruptions extend beyond immediate connectivity issues, highlighting a global trend toward state control over internet access, particularly in politically volatile regions. Such actions raise critical questions about data sovereignty and reliance on foreign infrastructure, especially for local tech providers who may become increasingly vulnerable to government-directed outages. As nations navigate the complexities of their digital environments, the power struggle for internet governance becomes ever more pronounced, leading to significant shifts in both technological and policy landscapes.