Iran's Reformist Government Lifts Ban on WhatsApp and Google Play

Iran's reformist government, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, has lifted the nation's ban on WhatsApp and Google Play. This decision marks an initial step in the administration's broader push for reform, aiming to improve the lives of Iran's 85 million citizens.

During a high-level meeting chaired by President Pezeshkian, the decision overcame resistance from hardline factions within the Islamic regime. Telecommunications Minister Sattar Hashemi described the move as a milestone, writing on X, “Today, we took the first step towards lifting internet restrictions by demonstrating unity. This path will continue.”

This development follows President Pezeshkian’s refusal to enforce a recently ratified hijab law that would have imposed stricter penalties on women who do not comply with the Islamic dress code. His administration has also quietly reinstated dozens of university students and professors previously barred from academic roles, signaling a broader push for reform.

Despite longstanding restrictions on platforms such as X, Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram, Iranians have continued to access these platforms through widely available VPNs. Reformist politicians have criticized hardliners for profiting from the VPN market while enforcing internet bans.

Ali Sharifi Zarchi, a university professor recently reinstated by the administration, welcomed the lifting of the bans as a “positive and hopeful” development but cautioned that broader reforms are needed. “It should not remain limited to these two platforms,” he said.

Iran's Islamic regime faces mounting internal and regional pressures, compounded by the unexpected collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad, a key ally. Domestically, the government is grappling with economic challenges and social discontent.

Pezeshkian, who won the presidency in July, campaigned on promises to improve economic and social conditions, emphasizing the easing of dress code laws and reducing internet censorship.

This latest move is a step in the right direction, providing hope for further reforms in Iran's future. As the nation navigates its complex political landscape, the lifting of these bans signifies a potential shift towards greater openness and connectivity for the Iranian people.