The US Can Put People on the Moon. Why Can’t It Get Iranians Online?
The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran has led to significant challenges for the Iranian populace, particularly due to a nationwide internet blackout. Jason Rezaian, a former Washington Post bureau chief in Tehran, emphasizes the importance of internet access for the Iranian people amid the chaos. The situation remains precarious, with a fragile ceasefire in place and concerns about the potential for the conflict to escalate further.
- ▪The US and Israel have attacked Iran, resulting in widespread chaos and economic damage.
- ▪A nationwide internet blackout imposed by the Iranian regime has hindered communication and information flow.
- ▪Jason Rezaian, who was imprisoned in Iran, advocates for better internet access to help the Iranian people during this crisis.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Katie DrummondThe Big StoryMay 26, 2026 10:41 AMThe US Can Put People on the Moon. Why Can’t It Get Iranians Online?Jason Rezaian spent years reporting from Iran before being imprisoned by the regime. He says internet access is key to transforming the country—if only the US government would do something about it.Photo-Illustration: WIRED Staff; Getty ImagesCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyIt’s been three months since the United States and Israel attacked Iran, kicking off a seemingly open-ended war that’s been characterized by chaos, widespread confusion, and global economic damage that’s expected to persist for months—if not years.Those suffering most from the war’s impact, the Iranian people, are arguably who we’ve heard from the least.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at WIRED.