Iran's president has ordered the reopening of international internet access, according to state media reports published May 25, 2026. The directive reverses restrictions that had limited Iranians' ability to connect to global online services and platforms.

The move marks a significant shift in Iran's internet policy, which has historically imposed some of the world's strictest controls on digital access. Iranian authorities have periodically blocked or throttled international internet connections during periods of political unrest, most notably during nationwide protests in recent years when access to platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, and international news sites was severely curtailed or cut entirely.

Details on the scope and timeline of the reopening remain limited in the Reuters Canada report. State media did not specify whether the order applies to all international services or only select platforms, nor did it indicate when users should expect restored access. The announcement also did not clarify whether the directive includes lifting blocks on social media networks that have been banned in Iran for years, such as Facebook and Twitter.

The decision could affect millions of Iranians who have relied on virtual private networks to bypass government filters and access blocked content. Iranian internet users, particularly younger demographics and professionals in tech-related fields, have long used VPNs to reach international platforms for communication, education, and business purposes despite official prohibitions on such tools.