Cut off from the world

Tension is escalating in Iran with celebrations for the anniversary of the establishment of the Islamic Republic being held throughout the nation. Due to restrictions put in place on internet access, communication with the country has been compromised. After the closure of social internet platforms Twitter and Youtube, it appears now there may be a ban on sending e-mails.

Iran’s telecommunications agency has announced that Google’s email and messaging service Gmail would no longer be permitted and instead a national messaging system will be established.  

According to the Wall Street Journal, “An Iranian official said the move was meant to boost local development of Internet technology and to build trust between people and the government.” According to internet security experts, “The move marks another effort by the regime to close the gap with its opposition in controlling Iranian cyberspace.”