Iran Eases Restrictions on WhatsApp, Google Play
Iran has lifted its ban on Meta’s messaging platform WhatsApp and the Google Play Store, signalling a move towards easing internet restrictions.
This decision was made by the Supreme Council of Cyberspace, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, and is considered the “first step in removing internet limitations,” according to the Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Sattar Hashemi.
The bans on WhatsApp and Google Play were initially imposed during the 2022 protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, during which social media platforms played a significant role in organising demonstrations. Despite these restrictions, many Iranians have used virtual private networks (VPNs) to access blocked services.
While WhatsApp and Google Play are now accessible, other platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Telegram remain blocked.
The Iranian government has historically enforced strict internet controls, citing national security concerns, but this recent move suggests a potential shift towards greater internet freedom.
“A majority vote has been reached in favour of lifting restrictions on certain popular foreign platforms, including WhatsApp and Google Play,” the official IRNA news agency reported, citing a meeting chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian.
“Today marks the first step in removing internet restrictions,” stated Iran’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Sattar Hashemi, as quoted by IRNA.
Social media platforms have been widely utilised during anti-government protests in Iran.
In September, the United States urged major technology companies to help circumvent online censorship in nations with heavy internet restrictions, including Iran.
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