Restrictions for Iranian iPhone Users in Accessing the App Store

According to reports, iPhone users in Iran are unable to download new applications from Apple's App Store. Several users have confirmed that access to the App Store has been restricted, with reports indicating that users encountered the message: "The App Store is not available in the country or region you are in." In conversations with Radio Farda, some users confirmed this limitation, stating they cannot download new applications, although they can update their existing apps. Meanwhile, some Iranian users have reported that they still have access to the App Store without issues. Various media outlets in Iran have reported that some users can access the App Store using a VPN, which obscures their location, but others have said they are unable to update their apps using a VPN. In September 2017, Apple removed several Persian applications, such as taxi and food ordering apps, citing U.S. sanctions against Iran as the reason. Apple does not have a representative office in Iran, and many of its devices are smuggled into the country. In response to Apple's actions, Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, tweeted: "11% of the smartphone market in Iran belongs to Apple. Respecting consumer rights is a principle that Apple has not adhered to. We will pursue legal action regarding the removal of apps." A campaign was also launched on Twitter to protest the removal of Iranian applications. However, Iranian users can still download free applications from Google Play in Iran. Apple has not officially commented on the recent disruptions and restrictions in Iran.