Iranian users have recently faced a serious disruption in accessing AI chatbots. Investigations show that the ability to directly use some of these tools has been lost for several hours. This disruption is especially evident in the relevant application versions, and some users have also reported that the web version of these services is not accessible without using a VPN.
Impact of Sanctions on Access to AI Tools
Iranian users have been deprived of access to many AI tools for years due to restrictions stemming from sanctions and the policies of foreign companies. However, in recent months, some users had managed to access services like ChatGPT, Cloud, and Spotify without filters by using various methods to reroute internet traffic. Now, it seems that this access path has encountered disruptions.
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History of Disruptions in Access to Online Services
This is not the first time Iranian users have faced such disruptions. In August 2026, access to ChatGPT and the music streaming service Spotify was also cut off for users without using a VPN, but after a few days, the connection was restored. This time, however, the situation seems more complicated, and it is still unclear whether the problem is related to changes in Iran's internet infrastructure or to new restrictions imposed by foreign providers.
The recent disruption is reported at a time when AI tools have become an integral part of the daily activities of students, researchers, programmers, and journalists. These tools have particularly assisted activists and enthusiasts in research, content creation, and programming, enabling them to effectively leverage the capabilities of AI.
Consequences of Disruption in Access
This disruption not only affects the daily lives of users but can also negatively impact research and development processes in various fields. Many users, especially in technology and online businesses, have become dependent on these tools, and lack of access can lead to decreased efficiency and productivity.
Iranian users must wait to see whether this disruption is temporary or if they need to seek new ways to access AI services. In any case, this situation is another sign of the challenges faced in the digital world for Iranian users.
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