The shutdown, described by analysts as the longest in the country’s history, has severely limited access to foreign websites, messaging apps and social media platforms, while selected domestic services remain operational.

Iranian officials say the measures are necessary to counter espionage and cyber threats during the conflict. Critics, however, argue the restrictions are creating a two-tiered internet system that favors approved professionals and regime-linked figures.

Since April, doctors, lawyers and some business owners have reportedly gained broader online access through a program known as “Internet Pro,” while ordinary citizens increasingly rely on costly VPNs or illegal Starlink terminals to stay connected.

Rights advocates and analysts say the blackout has intensified economic hardship for freelancers and online businesses already struggling under sanctions and rising living costs.

Weekly protests, which began with small turnouts following the launch of joint military operations by Israel and the United States on February 28, are drawing gradually larger crowds, though still far below last year’s mass demonstrations over the Gaza conflict.

In Tel Aviv, security forces moved to break up a rally at HaBima Square, citing emergency regulations that prohibit gatherings of more than 50 people due to ongoing missile threats from Iran and Lebanon.Police said 13 people were arrested in the city, while an additional five were detained in Haifa after protesters blocked roads and ignored instructions to disperse.

Authorities described the demonstrations as illegal under wartime guidelines.Footage showed officers forcibly removing protesters, with some individuals pushed to the ground during clashes.

Organizers, including groups such as Standing Together, Peace Now and Women Wage Peace, accused authorities of suppressing dissent. A spokesperson for one organizing group said the demonstrations had not received official authorization.

Participants expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding the war’s objectives. “Nobody actually knows what is the aim,” said Yoram, a 52-year-old tour guide attending the Tel Aviv protest.Another protester, Joanne Levine, 76, criticized the government’s strategy, linking the conflict to the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Despite the protests, public backing for the war remains strong. A poll by the Israel Democracy Institute found that 78 percent of Jewish Israelis support the conflict, compared to 19 percent among Arab Israeli citizens.

However, opposition is increasing, with the share of those against the war rising to 11.5 percent from 4 percent earlier in March, according to the survey.The demonstrations come as Israel continues to face sustained rocket and missile fire amid escalating regional hostilities.