In the current situation they can and will. The internet needs a massively gigantic architecture of interconnectedness and depends on governments for continued existence. The entire internet could be 'turned off' within a week, perhaps a day. Whether the governments of the world are willing to do this depends on the level of threat they perceive. Remember how quickly air traffic was halted in America after 911?
I recognize your passion and your desire for freedom and openness. Sadly, you misjudge the corruption of government and the lengths to which they are willing to go to retain their power.
The actions of Wikileaks will destroy the internet as we know it.
Ain’t happening. Freedom wins - always.
My only objection to DWar's arguments is with the assumption of how far troops and law enforcement personel in the USA will go in opposing the citizens, even after a major terrorist attack. Given the choice of siding with their families or government thugs, the troops may choose their families.