Iran tightens grip on internet freedom

Iranian authorities are weighing the idea of a national internet, which seems to rely on the idea of denying users access to international search engines, news websites and email servers, and instead offering them replacements developed and controlled by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Recent measures are specially worrisome for Iranian internet users, as ties between China and Iran seem stronger since the 25-year Iran–China Strategic Cooperation Agreement was signed last year.

There is concern that Iran, with help from China, may follow the Chinese model of the internet and further isolate Iranians from the rest of the world.