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Iraq blocks Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Instagram, shuts down internet (netblocks.org)

560 points by anigbrowl · 2571 days ago · 304 comments on HN

Article summary

The Iraqi government has blocked social media platforms and later shut down the internet amid civil unrest and protests. The restrictions were initially limited to specific online platforms, but total outages began, with much of Iraq falling offline. The shutdown has been lifted and restored multiple times, with some providers still blocking social media and messaging apps. The restrictions have been criticized as a violation of UN resolution A/HRC/32/L.20 and a threat to public safety and press freedom.

Main themes

  • Internet censorship
  • Government control
  • Protests and unrest
  • Technological solutions
  • Freedom of expression

What commenters say

  • Some believe that Starlink or similar satellite internet services could provide a solution to government-controlled internet shutdowns, but others argue that radio jammers could still disrupt the signal.
  • The use of lasers for inter-satellite communication could potentially mitigate jamming, but it may not be effective for ground-to-satellite communication.
  • Jamming devices can be relatively easy and inexpensive to set up, but deploying and maintaining them can be challenging, especially in a large country like Iraq.
  • Directional antennas can be used to locate and potentially destroy RF jammers, but they can also be targeted and destroyed by opponents.
  • The effectiveness of jamming depends on various factors, including the frequency and type of antennas used, as well as the surrounding environment.
  • Some argue that the use of explosive ordnance to destroy jamming devices is unlikely in protest situations, while others believe it could happen in extreme cases.
  • The development of satellite internet and anti-jamming technologies is seen as a cat-and-mouse game between governments and those seeking to circumvent their control.
  • The shutdown of the internet in Iraq has significant implications for freedom of expression, public safety, and economic activity.