Iran Expands Limited Internet Access Amid Ongoing Restrictions

Iran Expands Limited Internet Access to Selected Individuals and Entities

Tehran, Iran - Iranian authorities have expanded a list of individuals and entities eligible for limited internet access, known as Internet Pro. The service provides metered internet connectivity through three state-linked telecommunications companies, with data packages ranging from 50 gigabytes.

The program is available to selected professionals, including doctors, university professors, researchers, and academics in various fields. Business owners and traders were among the first to be connected, following an introduction by their guilds and chambers of commerce. Freelancers can sign up through a webpage set up by the state-linked Iranian ICT Guild.

Internet Pro offers access to thousands of sites and most global messaging services, but some applications, app stores, and Google services are blocked. Applicants must provide full identification and professional or referral documents.

The expansion of Internet Pro comes as internet connectivity remains severely limited in Iran, with only about 2% of pre-war levels available. The government imposed a near-total internet shutdown across the country following the first bombs falling in downtown Tehran on February 28. The shutdown has resulted in significant economic losses, estimated to be over $1.2 billion.

The state-linked ISNA news agency has framed Internet Pro as an “expert option providing a stable connection for professional activities.” However, not all are convinced, with many taking to state-run online platforms and news sites to demand the full restoration of internet access.

Source: Al Jazeera