BAGHDAD — The Iraqi government ends a week-long suspension of the Telegram messaging app over “national security” concerns after the move drew criticism from pro-Iran factions. As of this morning, the app is again accessible without the need for a virtual private network (VPN), AFP journalists in Baghdad say. A coalition of Iran-linked Shiite Muslim parties dominates Iraq’s parliament, and backs Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The country ranks 167 out of 180 on the Reporters Without Borders 2023 Press Freedom Index. Telegram has previously been blocked in some other countries.

Source: Ethiopian News August 13, 2023 11:33 UTC