Apple is removing apps from developers and startups based in Iran, reports Techrasa. The company has taken Digikala, the largest Iranian eCommerce service, down from the App Store, among others. When developers attempt to upload their apps, they’re receiving a message that explains why the store can’t include them.
Unfortunately, there is no App Store available for the territory of Iran. Additionally, apps facilitating transactions for businesses or entities based in Iran may not comply with the Iranian Transactions Sanctions Regulations (31CFR Part 560) when hosted on the App Store. For these reasons, we are unable to accept your application at this time. We encourage you to resubmit your application once international trade laws are revised to allow this functionality. – Apple
While there’s no App Store for the Iranian region, developers in the country have often registered their apps as originating elsewhere to gain access to iOS users. It appears Apple is cracking down due to international trade laws.
It’s not known if every kind of app is affected or if Apple is focused on taking down apps that facilitate transactions.
