Digital transformation in Iran, ban on WhatsApp and Google Play Store lifted, beginning of a new era

Tehran: Iran has taken a historic decision to lift the ban on WhatsApp and Google Play Store, signaling a significant change in internet restrictions in the country. The move is being seen as the beginning of a new era in Iran's digital landscape. The decision, taken after a meeting with top government officials, marks a new phase in reducing internet disruptions that have plagued the country for some time. Access to major global platforms has been restricted.

On Tuesday, a meeting was called with the participation of the heads of all three branches of government, ministers and members of the Supreme Council, where the review and adjustment of policies related to Internet governance and restrictions was discussed. Following the presentation of assessments from the relevant authorities, the Council approved changes to existing Internet restrictions.

Internet ban lifted with unity and cooperation

Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology Sattar Hashemi later took to Twitter to announce the development, saying, “Today, we took the first step toward lifting internet restrictions with unity and cooperation. I express my gratitude to the President, media and workers for their efforts. We need this solidarity more than ever. “This path continues.”

As IRNA reports, the move to lift sanctions is in line with the Iranian government's broader approach to managing its digital landscape, which emphasizes the importance of regulated cyberspace governance, as well as the need to support domestic platforms. .

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Lifting Internet restrictions was one of the key promises made by President Massoud Pezeshkian during his presidential campaign, and this decision marks the early fulfillment of that commitment.

However, despite the progress, the government has stressed that its approach will continue to prioritize the development and use of local platforms along with the resumption of global services like WhatsApp and Google Play.

As these changes unfold, the broader impact on both local businesses and individual users has yet to be fully assessed, but the easing of restrictions is an important step forward for Internet freedom in Iran.

(with agency input)