Durov had hoped working with the Iranian government and caving to their requirements would give him free rein over that market where Telegram was popular. After

Durov had hoped working with the Iranian government and caving to their requirements would give him free rein over that market where Telegram was popular. After eventually facing backlash and blocking from there and realizing that strategy is not sustainable, so they are essentially pivoting to something that makes money quickly for them. I don't think there's a more sophisticated strategy to look for here. Capitalize on the brand, if it is really worth anything, and cash out.