Iran bans online debate show over ‘false information’

Iran's judiciary has banned the YouTube debate show "Azad" for spreading false information, following a broadcast that authorities deemed unauthorized and factually inaccurate. The show's founder, Mehdi Ahmadi, was questioned and subsequently charged with disseminating false information, though he was released on bail. The ban came days after a New York Times article highlighted the show's provocative nature, often delving into sensitive topics such as Iran's relations with the US and internal social issues.

"Azad," which has nearly 160,000 subscribers, regularly features debates with guests from various political backgrounds, including opposition figures living abroad. Despite the show's popularity, it operates outside the official media framework in Iran, a country known for its strict media controls. YouTube, along with other social media platforms, has been restricted in Iran for years, leading users to rely on VPNs to access such content.

The ban underscores Iran's ongoing efforts to tighten media regulations since the US-Israeli attacks on February 28, which have escalated tensions in the Middle East.