Larijani Calls for Global Internet Disconnection: ‘Internet Play is Over!’
Mohammad Javad Larijani, head of the Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences and senior international affairs analyst, recently proposed a drastic step. In a memo published by a news agency, he urged Iran to disconnect completely from the global internet for several months. This idea, called “Internet Play is Over!”, has stirred wide discussion. It marks the first time a prominent political and academic figure has clearly proposed such a radical security strategy.
Larijani wants to cut off Iran’s global internet connection to “eradicate infiltration elements in cyberspace.” He argues that slogans like “free access to information” or “interaction with social media” should come second. Instead, he wants to focus on cleaning cyberspace from harmful elements. This shows a shift in priorities, putting security and control above free access and interaction.
Why “Internet Play is Over!”? The Roots of a Radical Proposal
The phrase “Internet Play is Over!” expresses Larijani’s view that global internet access has become a platform for harmful “play” and activities. He worries about how cyberspace affects society and national security. Larijani believes cutting global connection is necessary to fight enemy infiltration and plans online.
This idea appears while Iran continues to develop the National Information Network. The network aims to provide fast and secure domestic internet services, reduce costs, and protect infrastructure from attacks. But it does not mean cutting off the global internet entirely. Larijani’s call goes beyond this, suggesting full digital isolation for a period.
Potential Consequences of Disconnecting from the Global Internet
If Iran follows Larijani’s plan, the impact would be huge. Technically, it means separating Iran’s networks from the global internet backbone. This could disrupt software updates, cloud services, and some internal systems that rely on outside connections.
Economically, the effects would be even worse. Startups, banks, trade, online education, freelancers, and many businesses depend on global internet access. Disconnecting would halt many activities, causing economic decline and job losses.
Socially, cutting off the global internet would limit access to news, social media, educational content, and entertainment. People would feel isolated and less informed. Past temporary internet restrictions show how damaging such limits can be to morale and daily life.
National Information Network vs. Full Isolation
The National Information Network has long been Iran’s answer to improving internet infrastructure. It aims to offer stable local services and defend against cyberattacks, without fully cutting global access.
Larijani’s proposal is different. He clearly calls for a total cut from the global internet for several months. This has sparked debate. While some stress the need for control, many experts warn that full disconnection could cause lasting damage. They say Iran should develop local networks while staying connected to global systems and technology.
Worldwide, full internet disconnection usually happens only in war or severe crises. Using it in peaceful times is very rare and risky. Larijani’s idea is thus considered extreme.
“Internet Play is Over!”: Larijani’s Priorities
Larijani puts removing harmful online elements as the top priority. He sees free access to information and social interaction as less important. This security-first approach favors control and surveillance over freedom online.
This view clashes with the global idea of the internet as a free space for sharing knowledge and culture.
Effects on Iran’s Economy and Society
Many Iranians rely on global internet for education, business, research, and daily life. Cutting off the internet for months would disrupt universities, companies, artists, journalists, and ordinary users. It might also drive talented people and investments out of the country.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Larijani’s proposal to disconnect Iran from the global internet under the banner “Internet Play is Over!” is a serious warning about Iran’s digital future. Though it is just a personal memo, its source gives it weight.
Experts and civil society should discuss openly the risks of full internet cuts. They must work to avoid policies that isolate Iran digitally and harm the economy and society.
Maintaining a smart balance between security and free access, along with strengthening domestic networks, seems the best way forward.
