Iran Lifts Ban on WhatsApp and Google Play After Two Years
In a significant shift in digital policy, Iran has lifted its ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, restoring access to these popular platforms after more than two years. The decision, made by the Supreme Council of Cyber Space under the leadership of President Masoud Pezeshkian, marks a notable change in the country’s approach to social media and online services.
President Pezeshkian, a reformist who campaigned on a platform of easing social media restrictions, has followed through on his pledge with this move. Telecommunication Minister Sattar Heshemi described the decision as a “first step” towards further unblocking of online services.
Reports from Tehran and other major cities indicate that residents can now access WhatsApp and Google Play on their computers. However, mobile access remains limited, suggesting a phased approach to the restoration of services. WhatsApp, ranking as the third most popular messaging app in Iran after Instagram and Telegram, is expected to see a surge in usage following this development.
The ban on these platforms was initially implemented in 2022 during a period of widespread protests against the government. These demonstrations were triggered by the death of a woman in the custody of the morality police for alleged dress code violations. The subsequent government crackdown in 2023 resulted in hundreds of fatalities and thousands of arrests.
This recent policy change occurs against a backdrop of long-standing internet restrictions in Iran. The country has a history of blocking access to various social media platforms, prompting many Iranians to resort to proxies and VPNs to bypass these limitations.
As Iran takes this step towards digital openness, observers will be watching closely to see if it signals a broader shift in the country’s approach to internet freedom and social media access.
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