Iran is planning a permanent break from the global internet, allowing only vetted individuals to connect online, according to digital rights activists. Filterwatch, which monitors Iran’s internet, revealed a confidential plan to make international internet access a "governmental privilege." State media warns unrestricted internet will not return after 2026. Under this plan, Iranians with security clearance will access a filtered version of the global internet. Everyone else must use Iran's national internet, a closed network cut off from the world. This ongoing internet shutdown started on January 8 after large anti-regime protests, causing one of the longest blackouts in internet history. A government source said the shutdown could last at least until Nowruz, the Persian new year, on March 20. Former US officials called this permanent divide "plausible and terrifying," noting serious economic and cultural costs. Amir Rashidi of Filterwatch said the regime is "happy with the current level of internet connectivity" and believes the shutdown helps control protests. Iran’s internet controls grew over 16 years, combining technology from China to whitelist select users and filter internet traffic through advanced devices. Iran’s national internet covers simple Iranian-made websites and apps. It emerged after authorities saw that total shutdowns badly hurt the country in 2009 protests. Since then, Tehran has slowly built this parallel network, encouraging businesses to move data centers inside Iran with tax benefits. Researchers found Iran’s national network works like an internal office system, unreachable from outside. Now it’s the only option for most Iranians online as protests slow under a tough crackdown. The US expert said Iran’s internet power is greater than many authoritarian states, but noted this could hurt Iran's economy too. The digital rights community remains alarmed about the harsh future of online freedom in Iran.