Official announcements from the Iranian government or credible international news outlets

Iran Unanimously Lifts WhatsApp Ban, Begins Easing Internet Restrictions

Dec 24, 2024, 02:55 PM

Iran's Supreme Council of Cyberspace has unanimously voted to lift the ban on WhatsApp and Google Play. The decision was made during a meeting on December 24, 2024, attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian, the heads of the three government branches, and council members. Minister of Communications Setar Hashemi announced that this is the first step in easing internet restrictions in the country. The council emphasized the importance of lawful governance in cyberspace and supporting domestic platforms. Prior to the meeting, 136 members of the Iranian parliament sent a letter opposing the move, calling it a 'gift to the enemies in the soft war'.