TEHRAN: The Supreme Court of Cyberspace in Iran unanimously voted to lift the ban on WhatsApp and the Google Play Store on Tuesday.
This marks a huge development in the Islamic Republic’s internet policy after more than two decades of restrictions.
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The country’s state media reported the decision, which reflects a potential shift in the Iranian government’s approach to digital communication.
Communications Minister, Sattar Hashemi, announced the decision on social media platform X (Twitter). “Today marks the first toward easing internet restrictions through consensus”, he wrote.
The timeline for implementing the decision has not been disclosed yet.
The lifting of the ban sparked discussions among different stakeholders in Iran and the wider global community, as well.
Critics of the restrictions imposed by the strict Islamic government argued that they have only led to increased frustration and costs for the citizens.
However, some lawmakers have expressed apprehension regarding the decision. A group of 136 members from the 290-seat Iranian parliament sent a letter to the council.
In the letter, the lawmakers cautioned the ban lift could be perceived as a “gift” to Iran’s enemies. They told the council that access to restricted platforms should only be granted if they align with the values of an ‘Islamic society’ and comply with Iranian laws.
In recent years, many Iranians have resorted to using virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass internet restrictions. While Iran unblocking of WhatsApp and Google Play in a notable change, other major social media platforms, including Facebook, X and YouTube remain inaccessible, having been banned since 2009.
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The restrictions on Instagram and WhatsApp were imposed following widespread protests triggered by the killing of Mahsa Amini in September 2022.
The decision to lift the ban was made during a meeting, which included leaders from all three branches of government, ministers and members of the Supreme Council.
The discussions centred on reviewing and revising internet governance policies. Following evaluations from relevant authorities, the council approved the changes to existing restrictions.
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The decision also aligns with the Iranian President’s, Masoud Pezeshkian, campaign promise to ease long-standing internet restrictions.