Turkey Lifts Instagram Ban After Platform Agrees to Cooperation

Turkey has restored access to Instagram after the platform agreed to cooperate with authorities. The nine-day ban was imposed over non-compliance with Turkish laws and public sensitivities. The issue was triggered by Instagram blocking condolence posts related to the assassination of a Hamas leader, leading to protests from users and businesses.

Turkey announced on Saturday that it has restored access to Instagram after the social media company agreed to cooperate with government authorities to address national concerns.

Access to Instagram was blocked on August 2nd for failing to comply with Turkey's laws and public sensitivities. A top Turkish official accused Instagram of blocking condolence posts over the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The nine-day ban prompted backlash from users and small businesses who rely on the platform. Following negotiations, Instagram's parent company Meta agreed to adhere to Turkish law to remove posts containing certain crimes or terrorism propaganda. Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced the lift of the ban, citing improved security and legal compliance in the digital environment.

(With inputs from agencies.)