Iranian authorities have lifted the ban on WhatsApp and the Google Play Store, marking a pivotal change in the country’s internet restrictions, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).
The decision follows a high-level meeting involving top government officials, including heads of all three branches of government, ministers, and members of the Supreme Council. Discussions centered on reviewing and adjusting internet governance policies, resulting in the council’s approval of changes to the long-standing restrictions.
Sattar Hashemi, Iran’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, announced the development on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Today, we took the first step towards lifting internet restrictions with unity and collaboration. I extend my gratitude to the President, media, and activists for their efforts. We need this solidarity more than ever. This path continues.”
The lifting of the ban is part of a broader strategy by the Iranian government to manage its digital landscape. While the move signals a step toward easing global platform access, the government remains committed to promoting and supporting domestic platforms, according to IRNA.
President Masoud Pezeshkian had pledged during his campaign to reduce internet restrictions, and this decision represents an early fulfillment of that promise. The government, however, has emphasized a dual approach, balancing the return of services like WhatsApp and Google Play with the continued prioritization of local digital infrastructure.
The broader implications of this policy shift for businesses and individual users in Iran are yet to be fully realized, but the easing of restrictions marks a significant advancement for internet freedom in the country.
