Iran has just made history with its earlier long-standing internet restrictions after unbanning WhatsApp and Google Play Store. This marked a new tide in the way the country has handled social media across the globe and how access to the internet was managed.
News on the same was broadcast by Sattar Hashemi, Iran's Minister of IT and Communication Affairs. Hashemi said that the resolution was concluded after consultation with the representatives of the members of the Supreme Court Council, ministers, and other people from the government. In a word, he appreciates his gratitude to numerous stakeholders for making this turn possible through the President's role and media and other rights activists. Hashemi further added, "This is part of internet reform processes in the nation."
President Masoud Peshmerga had promised the limitation of internet restrictions while he was running for elections, and this is a promise that has been fulfilled. The removal of the ban on services such as WhatsApp and Google Play Store is indeed positive, but the government did not compromise on giving priority to local platforms. It simply shows that the administration aims to modernize while also promoting local alternatives.
Although many see this as one step forward for internet freedom, opinions vary about whether it will have an influence. Local businesses and individual users are cautiously optimistic but realize that it is too soon to assess how these changes will affect the Iranian digital landscape. For now, restoring such services is a symbolic yet important step toward greater connectivity and openness.
