On Sunday, media reported that Tehran had temporarily restricted access to social media apps Instagram and Telegram, used by activists to exchange messages about the rallies.
"The rumors about the permanent closure of the social networks do not correspond to the reality. It seems that they seek to create social discontent and pessimism," the minister wrote on his Twitter account.
READ MORE: 12 People Reportedly Killed in Iran Amid Nationwide Protests
Several major cities in Iran, including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan and Rasht, have been engulfed by protests since December 28, 2017. The people have taken to the streets to protest against unemployment, poverty, and the rising cost of living, as well as policies of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. According to media reports, the number of people killed in protests in the country has grown to 12.
