[45744] Public criticism in Iran over 'class-based internet' and the issue of government SIM cards

Public criticism in Iran over 'class-based internet' and the issue of government SIM cards

In recent days, harsh claims have been raised by citizens in Iran regarding the authorities' internet access policy, with an emphasis on what is known as "class-based internet." According to reports by Iran International, a media outlet affiliated with the Iranian opposition and a sharp critic of the regime, citizens are complaining about the difficulties in accessing an open internet and the gaps created by the use of "Pro SIM cards."

These SIM cards, which allow access to the internet with less censorship, have been defined by citizens as a tool that creates social discrimination. According to one of the reports on Iran International, a citizen called on the public to boycott these SIM cards, arguing that "the right to the internet has become the exclusive domain of lawyers and doctors," while members of other classes are left without equal access.

In addition, Iran International reports on cases of political screening in receiving these services. A citizen testified that his request to receive an "open" type SIM card was rejected due to a criminal record attributed to him by the Revolutionary Guards. The reports emphasize the fear that this is a means of control used against opponents of the regime.

At the same time, reports on Iran International and on the کافه سیاست channel (a channel identified with political discussions) point to public anger toward holders of SIM cards referred to by critics as "blood cards." According to the claims, holders of these cards use their privileges not to protect civil rights, but to conduct political struggles against opposition figures such as Prince Reza Pahlavi.