Iran Bans YouTube Show "Azad" for False Information

Iran’s judiciary has banned the YouTube debate show "Azad" for disseminating “false information.” The channel's founder and presenter, Mehdi Ahmadi, was charged and questioned on February 28 and released on bail. The judiciary stated that Azad was operating without an official license from the culture ministry, which oversees media activities in Iran.

An investigation was launched following a broadcast that was deemed to contain false information. Mizan Online reported that a supervision order was issued prohibiting Ahmadi from conducting any media activities until a license is obtained.

The Azad channel, which has nearly 160,000 subscribers, covers a range of topics including the Iran-US war and social issues, featuring guests from various political backgrounds, including opposition figures. The channel has been noted for pushing the limits of Iran’s authoritarian media landscape.

Iran has historically maintained strict control over media, requiring licenses for coverage, and platforms like YouTube have been blocked for years, necessitating the use of VPNs by users.