Iran's Supreme Leader Calls for Stricter Cyberspace Regulation

Ayatollah Khamenei urges new government to implement laws governing internet use, citing global examples.

Khamenei emphasizes the need for internet laws to transform virtual space into an opportunity rather than a threat.
Iran has some of the world's strictest internet controls, frequently bypassed by tech-savvy citizens using VPNs.
The Supreme Leader referenced the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in France as a justification for regulation.
President Masoud Pezeshkian had previously criticized internet filtering for its negative economic impact on small businesses.
Iran ranked third globally in internet shutdowns in 2023, affecting both mobile networks and popular social media platforms.