Baghdad, Iraq–Iraq has restored access to the popular messaging app, Telegram, on Sunday after a week-long ban.
The ban, which took effect on August 6, was enforced after concerns arose regarding breaches of national security. The government cited the leaking of state-owned private documents and the protection of citizens’ personal data as primary reasons for the temporary shutdown.
The decision to ban Telegram had been met with significant backlash, especially from Iranian-backed Shiite militias who are active users of the platform in Iraq. These groups had previously alleged that the U.S. influenced the Iraqi government’s decision to suspend Telegram.
The decision comes in the wake of Telegram’s compliance with Iraq’s security demands.
The ministry, in a statement released late Saturday, confirmed that Telegram has agreed to disclose the identities of individuals or entities covertly sharing the data of Iraqi citizens. This move is seen as a significant step towards ensuring national security and safeguarding the privacy of its citizens.
Prime Minister Mohammad Shiya al-Sudani has instructed the lifting of the ban, emphasizing the importance of companies operating within Iraq to respect the nation’s laws, security protocols, and user data privacy.
The ministry’s recent statement, however, reaffirms Iraq’s commitment to freedom of expression. It underscores the necessity for social media platforms to operate within the legal and security frameworks of the countries they serve.