Iran On Social Media and Security: A Look at Recent Measures and Reactions
On Monday, discussions surfaced about how social networks Instagram and WhatsApp, both part of Meta Platforms, may be involved in disseminating material that challenges Iran’s national security. The topic centered on the death of Mahsa Amini, which sparked protests and intense public scrutiny of information flows across digital platforms. Officials cited these platforms as potential channels for provocative content that could threaten public order and national safety, according to statements reported by Mehr News Agency via the government news office.
Deputy Interior Minister Majid Mirahmadi characterized national security as a red line. He noted that the issue is closely tied to the spread of material deemed harmful or destabilizing, especially when shared through widely used social media services. The remarks were relayed through the state media network and reflect ongoing concerns about how foreign-owned platforms operate within Iran’s borders.
Mehdi Bagheri, who oversees a parliamentary task force looking into cyber content, emphasized that any platform aiming to operate in Iran must adhere to the country’s laws. He stated that Instagram and WhatsApp are currently restricted by the country’s security authorities, and the restrictions will remain as long as security considerations persist.
Bagheri also noted that, at present, Iran has no memorandum of understanding or formal cooperation agreement with WhatsApp or Instagram. He stressed that these platforms do not recognize Iran’s legal framework, which complicates attempts at formal collaboration and raises questions about how content is managed on foreign networks within Iranian territory.
In recent days, non-governmental organizations have raised concerns about access to a range of internet platforms. The list includes Instagram, WhatsApp, Signal, Viber, Skype, LinkedIn, Google Play, and the App Store, with reports of access issues and service disruptions affecting user experience and communication capabilities.
Amini was taken into custody on September 13 and died three days later after falling into a coma while in a detention facility. Police officials denied accusations of torture or ill-treatment, and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi pledged to order a formal inquiry into the matter to determine what occurred and how it could have been prevented in the future.