Iran Accuses US Of Destabilizing Acts In Cybersphere

Iran has accused the US of destabilizing cybersphere, claiming that lack of fair international laws has made it vulnerable to US influence.

Speaking at a meeting of national security advisors and secretaries of BRICS countries in South Africa, Iran’s Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Akbar Ahmadian warned of the impacts of Washington’s interference on the internet.

"The experience of Iran has shown how Americans have tried to make different types of interferences and create insecurity in other societies through cyberspace," Ahmadian said.

He claimed that the US’s control over online platforms like Google, Twitter, Instagram, etc. has made it possible for Washington to assert control over the global online media.

In a subtle attempt to justify the regime’s restrictions on the Internet and access to information, he said "The cyberspace of each country... must be managed exclusively by their respective governments."

Among the challenges the regime faces to stifle voices of dissent and crack down on popular protests, authorities have blocked access to Instagram and WhatsApp in September, when the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody ignited the boldest uprising against the Islamic Republic since its establishment. Facebook, Twitter, and Telegram had previously been banned after the 2009 presidential election and the November 2019 protests. 

His remarks came as concerns have been raised over cyber threats emanating from Iran. Hackers linked to the country have targeted critical US infrastructure, including transport, energy, and ports, prompting heightened vigilance in the United States.