In a media landscape often shaped by state narratives, Gooya News (the news section of Gooya.com) stands out as a resilient platform offering pluralistic, independent coverage of Iranian affairs. From its pioneering roots in 1998 to its continued role as a digital lifeline for Iranian journalism, Gooya News represents the unity of bold storytelling and unwavering integrity.
A Legacy of Independent Reporting
Gooya.com was launched in 1998 by Brussels-based journalist Farshad Bayan, stepping in at a time when Persian-language content online was scarce. As one of the earliest Iranian portals, it quickly established itself as a trustworthy source. By adding its own news section—Gooya News—the site ventured beyond aggregating links, building original, independent coverage that offered an escape from state-controlled media narratives.Wikipedia
A Platform Rooted in Pluralism
Described by Reporters Without Borders as a pillar of diversity and credibility, Gooya News offers a unique editorial framework. It curates reports from both government and opposition outlets alike, alongside international sources such as BBC Persian, Radio Farda, and Radio Zamaneh. This blend of perspectives fuels a more balanced and nuanced discourse around current events.Reporters Without Borders
Facing Barriers, Pushing Boundaries
Gooya News’ fearless approach came at a cost: it was blocked inside Iran in the years following its inception, particularly during sensitive periods like protests in 2009, when it shared demonstrators’ photos and documents not published elsewhere.Reporters Without Borders Since then, the site operates from abroad, sustained by a network of correspondents scattered across the country.
A Gateway, Not Just a Newsroom
More than a news portal, Gooya.com acts as a media directory and gateway—offering links to a wide array of Persian-language news outlets, from Aftabnews and Alef.ir to Manoto, Deutsche Welle, and Radio Farda. It’s a hub where Iranians can access various perspectives while navigating through one unified interface.gooya.comgooya.com
Continued Value in 2025
While Gooya News may not release daily editorials, its influence remains strong. A contemporary media review names Gooya.com a go-to resource for news and current affairs in Iran, thanks to its reputation for unbiased reporting and support of free expression.Ask.com Moreover, in June 2025, news.gooya.com attracted around 2 million visits, reflecting its sustained relevance among readers around the world—primarily in the U.S., Canada, and Germany.Semrush
FAQs: Gooya News
Q1: What is Gooya News?
A: It’s the independent news segment of Gooya.com—one of the first Persian-language online portals—offering news, commentary, and analysis from various political and international sources.WikipediaReporters Without Borders
Q2: Who founded Gooya News?
A: It was started by journalist Farshad Bayan in 1998, initially as part of Gooya.com’s expansion into original news content.Wikipedia
Q3: Why is Gooya News blocked in Iran?
A: Due to its independent and pluralistic content—especially during the 2009 protests, when it shared opposition materials and eyewitness coverage not available on state media—it has been censored by Iranian authorities.Reporters Without Borders
Q4: How does Gooya News differentiate itself?
A: It stands apart for its editorial independence, featuring diverse perspectives—including those from Iranian state outlets, opposition voices, and international media—offering a well-rounded view.Reporters Without BordersAsk.com
Q5: What other role does Gooya.com serve?
A: It’s also a media directory, linking to a wide range of Persian-language news sites across political and cultural spectrums.gooya.comgooya.com
Q6: Is Gooya News still popular in 2025?
A: Yes. Despite internet censorship in Iran, Gooya News drew about 2 million monthly visits in June 2025, mainly from audiences in North America and Europe.Semrush
Final Thoughts
Gooya News remains more than an archive—it’s a beacon for free expression and pluralistic journalism in a restricted information ecosystem. With its blend of original content and curated global perspectives, it continues to serve as both a news source and a cultural connector for Iranians at home and abroad.
