On May 28, 2026, Iranian authorities lifted restrictions on several popular online platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Google Play, according to reports from state media and international news agencies. The move ended an 88-day internet shutdown that began on March 1, 2026, following widespread protests.
The restrictions had blocked access to messaging apps, social media, and streaming services, affecting millions of Iranians who relied on these tools for communication, business, and entertainment. The shutdown was one of the most extensive in the country's history, drawing criticism from human rights groups and the United Nations.
Iranian officials stated that the restoration was part of a review of internet policies, though they emphasized that access could be restricted again if deemed necessary for national security. The lifting of the ban was welcomed by many Iranians, who celebrated the return of online connectivity.
International observers noted that the decision may signal a temporary easing of tensions, but warned that internet censorship remains a tool for the government to control information during periods of unrest. The 88-day duration of the shutdown was verified by multiple sources, including the NetBlocks internet observatory.
