TLDR: Iran’s national artificial intelligence operator is on the verge of receiving official approval and licensing, a move that will significantly advance the country’s efforts to organize and regulate its burgeoning AI sector. This development follows a series of strategic initiatives, including substantial investments, the unveiling of a national AI platform prototype, and the approval of a comprehensive National Artificial Intelligence Plan by the Islamic Consultative Assembly.
TEHRAN, September 14, 2025 – Iran is set to take a significant leap in its artificial intelligence (AI) development with the imminent approval and licensing of its national AI operator. A Deputy ICT official announced today that the operator is expected to receive official endorsement at the first Regulatory Commission meeting. This crucial step is designed to organize and regulate AI activities across the nation, laying a foundational framework for future growth and innovation in the sector.
This latest development is part of Iran’s ambitious strategy to emerge as a global leader in artificial intelligence. The country has publicly declared its aspiration to become one of the top 10 AI leaders worldwide within the next decade. To underpin this goal, the Iranian government committed a substantial $115 million to AI research and development at the beginning of 2025.
Earlier this year, on March 15, 2025, Iran unveiled a prototype of its national AI platform, with expectations for a stable version to be released within a year. This platform is a cornerstone of the country’s technological infrastructure. Furthermore, the Islamic Consultative Assembly formally approved the National Artificial Intelligence Plan on May 18, 2025, following its prior endorsement by the Industries Commission of Parliament. The importance and urgency of AI progress were underscored by remarks from the Supreme Leader during the parliamentary session.
Institutional support for AI development was solidified in July 2024 with the establishment of the National AI Organisation, an independent body operating under the direct supervision of the President. Iran’s robust academic ecosystem also plays a vital role, with leading institutions such as Sharif University of Technology, the University of Tehran, and Amirkabir University of Technology actively contributing to AI research and education. By 2023, Iran had already achieved the second-highest ranking in the region for the number and quality of AI-related scientific publications, demonstrating a strong national focus on AI development.
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Beyond civilian applications, Iran’s AI advancements extend to military uses, including AI-powered drones and missile guidance systems, signaling a strategic shift towards next-generation warfare capabilities. Regionally, Iran is actively seeking AI partnerships with Persian Gulf states, leveraging its expertise and human capital to foster collaborations and potentially counter Western technological dominance.
