Google lifted some of its restrictions for on-line users in Iran on 21 January. Google unblocked access to Google Chrome, Google Earth and Picasa, previously US trade sanctions had prevented Iranian users from accessing the site. The restrictions are still in place for users linked to the Iranian government.
Reza Khandan, husband of imprisoned lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh has been detained by authorities. His detention occurred after he was summoned to Evin prison court. One opposition website has claimed his arrest is due to his activities and interviews in support of his wife. Nasrin Sotoudeh was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment and 20-year travel ban.
According to opposition website rahesabz a think tank close to the Iranian security apparatus has published a leaflet containing a list of publishers, writers and translators deemed as “usurpers” intent on overthrowing the regime. The publishers listed include Cheshmeh, Ghoghnous, Akhtaran and Kavir and are well known for publishing works by reformist scholars and writers. Among the writers listed in the document are dissident figures such as Emadeddin Baghi, Ramin Jahan Begloo and poet Simin Behbahani.
Brazilian author Paulo Coelho has published a message on his blog claiming his books have been banned in Iran.
The Brazilian author has not been given the specific reasons for this action. However he has said that he has been using social networks to support Arash Hejazi.
Hejazi is the doctor and translator of Coelho’s books to Farsi, who appeared in the footage of Neda Agha-Soltan’s death during the demonstrations following Iran’s disputed presidential elections.