Iran Faces Rising Mobile Internet Costs Amid Sanctions and Censorship

• •Iranian mobile operators raised tariffs by 40% for calls and internet services.
• •The price increase is linked to government-imposed restrictions and international sanctions.
• •Iran ranks among the worst countries for internet freedom, facing severe censorship.

Iranian mobile operators MCI and Irancell have announced a 40% increase in tariffs for calls, texts, and mobile internet packages, effective October 23, 2026. This price hike coincides with ongoing government restrictions on internet access, which have been exacerbated by international sanctions and a naval blockade. The Iranian government has imposed widespread censorship, with Freedom House ranking Iran among the worst countries for internet freedom. The increase in costs follows a history of internet shutdowns during protests and military operations, further complicating access for citizens. The new rates apply to all mobile services, while fixed internet and fiber-optic services also see similar increases. The situation reflects a broader trend of declining internet freedom and rising costs for essential services in Iran.