The shutdown, described by analysts as the longest in the country’s history, has severely limited access to foreign websites, messaging apps and social media platforms, while selected domestic services remain operational.

Iranian officials say the measures are necessary to counter espionage and cyber threats during the conflict. Critics, however, argue the restrictions are creating a two-tiered internet system that favors approved professionals and regime-linked figures.

Since April, doctors, lawyers and some business owners have reportedly gained broader online access through a program known as “Internet Pro,” while ordinary citizens increasingly rely on costly VPNs or illegal Starlink terminals to stay connected.

Rights advocates and analysts say the blackout has intensified economic hardship for freelancers and online businesses already struggling under sanctions and rising living costs.

Speaking at the conclusion of his weekly Sunday prayer in Saint Peter’s Square, the pontiff said the annual observance underscored both the value of independent journalism and the growing threats faced by reporters carrying out their work.

“Today we celebrate World Press Freedom Day , unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes in blatant ways, sometimes in more hidden forms,” he told worshippers gathered in the square under clear skies.

The pope urged the faithful to remember journalists and correspondents who had lost their lives while pursuing facts and reporting from areas affected by war and violence.“We remember the many journalists and reporters who have been victims of war and violence,” he said.

World Press Freedom Day, supported by UNESCO and observed annually on May 3, serves as a global platform to defend media independence, highlight censorship and intimidation, and honor journalists who have died in the line of duty.

The Catholic leader has repeatedly described journalism as a pillar of democracy and social accountability, emphasizing that access to truthful information is a public good that must be protected from manipulation and political pressure.

In previous addresses, he has thanked reporters for their role in uncovering facts and holding power to account, arguing that journalism should never be criminalized and calling for the release of journalists unfairly detained or prosecuted around the world.

His remarks come at a time when press freedom advocates continue to warn of growing restrictions on independent reporting, particularly in conflict zones where journalists face heightened risks of detention, violence and death.

The Vatican has increasingly used global observances such as Press Freedom Day to reinforce broader appeals for human dignity, transparency and protection of civil institutions amid rising international instability.

Kabli, 23, who performs under the stage name L7assal and is also a member of the banned but tolerated Islamist movement Al Adl Wal Ihssane, had been sentenced in March after being arrested on charges of insulting a public body and undermining respect for constitutional institutions.

The charges carry a maximum sentence of four years in prison under Moroccan law.Speaking after the appeal hearing in the northeastern city of Taza, lawyer Mohammed Taifi said the ruling was unjustified and argued that his client had only exercised his right to express opinions without intending to offend state institutions or public officials.

“It’s an error of judgment. There was no intention to offend anyone, nor were there any explicitly offensive remarks,” Taifi said.He said Kabli had told the court that his music and social media posts were aimed at expressing views on corruption and foreign policy issues, including Rabat’s decision to normalize relations with Israel, rather than insulting individuals or constitutional bodies.

The case has drawn criticism from rights advocates, with the Moroccan Association for Human Rights calling for Kabli’s release and for all charges to be dropped.The group described the prosecution as a political attempt to restrict freedom of expression and silence dissenting voices.

Morocco normalized ties with Israel in 2020 under a U.S.-backed agreement that generated domestic debate, particularly among Islamist groups and pro-Palestinian activists.

Al Adl Wal Ihssane, though officially banned, remains one of Morocco’s most influential opposition Islamist movements and frequently criticizes government policy.