[58336] Sharp public criticism in Iran: The internet has become a tool of 'discrimination and corruption'
[58336] Sharp public criticism in Iran: The internet has become a tool of 'discrimination and corruption'
Experts and journalists in Iran are harshly criticizing the continued internet restrictions and the launch of the paid 'Pro Internet', arguing that it is a severe blow to social justice and the economy.
The internet crisis in Iran: Public outrage over restrictions and economic extortion
The public debate in Iran surrounding network restrictions reached a peak on May 13, 2026, as academics and journalists criticized the current policy. According to اخبارفوری خبرفوری جنگ امریکا فوری, Communications Professor Ghader Bastani Tabrizi argues that "disconnecting the internet does not bring security or stability, but only accumulates costs". According to him, the internet has become an essential infrastructure similar to water and electricity, and the continued restrictions are severely damaging businesses and social justice.
A central focus of the criticism is the launch of the "Pro Internet" service, which allows expanded access for a fee. The "Farhikhtegan" newspaper, as reported on فناوری فوری📡, places heavy moral question marks on this model: "If the international internet has a security problem, is it solved by collecting money from the public?". The source notes that the combination of sweeping restrictions and the creation of a preferred paid track damages "social capital" and is perceived by citizens as a scandalous move.
On the آخرین اخبار فناوری channel, it was noted that the restrictions imposed on the general public empty the 'Pro Internet' of its effectiveness. The criticism shared by all sources deals with what they call a "class-based internet" – a phenomenon they claim is contrary to the values of equal access to information.
The critics, identified with positions of freedom of information and technological development, emphasize that the current policy stems from a lack of responsibility by decision-makers and a deep crisis of trust. According to Bastani Tabrizi, "the internet is not a threat", but rather a tool whose potential for economic development is being sacrificed in the name of "uncertainty in digital rights."