Iran lifts two-year ban on WhatsApp in internet policy shift

Iran's Supreme Council of Cyberspace has voted to lift a two-year ban on WhatsApp, a significant change in internet policy. The decision was made unanimously, signaling a potential shift towards reducing internet restrictions in the country. The council, which includes high-ranking officials, did not specify when the ban would officially end. Critics of the previous restrictions argue they were costly and ineffective, while some lawmakers expressed concerns that lifting the ban could benefit foreign interests. Despite this development, other popular platforms like Facebook, X, and YouTube remain blocked in Iran. The government has previously encouraged the use of domestic apps to replace foreign services.