Telegram’s Suspension in Iraq: National Security Concerns Lead to Drastic Measures
The Iraqi government announced on Sunday the suspension of the widely used Telegram messaging application across the country, citing “national security” concerns. The move has drawn criticism from channels aligned with pro-Iran factions.
By midday on Sunday, the Telegram service was completely inaccessible in Baghdad, prompting users to resort to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access the application.
Iraq’s Ministry of Communications defended the decision, stating that the suspension was a response to “directives from higher authorities related to national security.” The ministry argued that the move was essential to safeguard the personal data of citizens, which it claimed was compromised by the application.
The government asserted that Telegram had failed to address concerns about “data leakage from state institutions and individuals,” posing a potential threat to national security and social harmony.
Telegram is a popular platform in Iraq, particularly among armed factions and pro-Iran political groups. A channel with over 330,000 subscribers, which is critical of the suspension, argued that the action was an attempt to stifle free expression and accused the Iraqi government, supported by pro-Iran parties, of curtailing freedoms.
Although Iraq has experienced a degree of stability following years of conflict, the government has faced criticism from activists and non-governmental organizations for suppressing freedom of expression.
Amnesty International raised alarms last month, expressing concerns that proposed bills in the Iraqi parliament could significantly restrict the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. This legislation coincided with a series of trials targeting individuals critical of government figures.
Notably, Telegram has encountered blockades in various countries previously. In April, the app was temporarily suspended in Brazil due to its alleged failure to provide information about neo-Nazi groups operating on the platform. However, this decision was later overturned on appeal within two days.
