"Cyber police undermine Iranian president's internet freedom promises", 21 August 2024

In an interview with the official IRNA news agency, Majid criticized foreign platforms as "irresponsible" for not complying with Iran's demands, misleadingly asserting that adherence to local laws is standard practice in developed nations…

… Iran has blocked thousands of websites for political content and issues like images of women without hijab—actions that are uncommon in most developed countries…

… lifting the restrictions and bans on popular social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, X, Telegram, and WhatsApp would require these companies to establish official representation in Iran…

… Despite such measures, Iranians have fought back, often resorting to using VPNs to bypass the restrictions and access the global internet…

… The Islamic Republic's iron grip on the internet has crippled thousands of small businesses, further entrenching social and economic disparities…

… This hardline stance was reinforced by the National Security Council and backed by Iran’s security apparatus, including the Ministry of Intelligence and the IRGC’s Intelligence Organization…

… Iran in a broader effort is to advance the "national internet" project. This initiative, inspired by China's model of digital authoritarianism, seeks to limit VPN use and enhance government surveillance capabilities…