U.S. removes Internet sanctions against Iran, Cuba and Sudan

The government is removing specific trade sanctions against Iran, Cuba and Sudan to enhance internet applications and services offered by U.S. companies. The change in policy removes restrictions from companies like Facebook, Twitter and others to offer services in those regions. In a Senate hearing last week on Human Rights and the Law, a key issue discussed was the lack of access to U.S. Internet based applications.

In a press release issued today, Deputy Treasury Secretary Neal Wolin said;

"Consistent with the Administration's deep commitment to the universal rights of all the world's citizens, the issuance of these general licenses will make it easier for individuals in Iran, Sudan and Cuba to use the Internet to communicate with each other and with the outside world.  Today's actions will enable Iranian, Sudanese and Cuban citizens to exercise their most basic rights," said Deputy Treasury Secretary Neal Wolin.