Iranian authorities have lifted a ban on Meta’s instant messaging platform WhatsApp and Google Play as a first step to scale back internet restrictions.

Iran's reformist government has lifted bans on WhatsApp and Google Play, signaling efforts to reduce internet restrictions despite hardliner opposition.

The Supreme Cyberspace Council, which is tasked with safeguarding the internet for Iranian citizens, voted unanimously to lift restrictions on a number of foreign-owned applications during a meeting today, according to a report by the state news agency IRNA.

Iranian authorities remove restrictions on Meta's messaging platform WhatsApp and on Google Play, marking an initial move to ease internet limitations.

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s government on Tuesday said it had lifted a ban on access to WhatsApp and Google Play after more than two years, the official IRNA news agency reported.

The move has sparked a debate in Iran, with critics of the restrictions arguing the controls were costly for the country

Decision reached during meeting of Iran's Supreme Council of Cyberspace, reports state-run news agency IRNA - Anadolu Ajansı

Iran lifts ban on WhatsApp and Google Play Store, restoring access to key communication and app platforms for users nationwide.

Allowing the use of WhatsApp and Google Play is the "first step in removing internet limitations," according to Iranian officials. The country still enforces draconian internet controls.