Iraq Moves to Revoke MBC License Amid Protests

Iraq's Media and Communications Commission is moving to revoke the license of the Saudi television station MBC following widespread protests in Baghdad. The protests erupted after MBC aired a report labeling prominent Iranian-linked figures, including Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, as 'terrorists', which outraged militia supporters who view these individuals as heroes in the fight against Israel. The protesters stormed MBC's Baghdad offices, vandalizing property and chanting anti-Saudi slogans, leading to the station's closure. The commission cited violations of broadcasting regulations and a need to protect national sentiments against perceived attacks on local resistance leaders. This incident highlights the growing tensions in Iraq amid the broader regional conflicts involving Iran-backed groups. Critics warn that the Iraqi government's actions signal a troubling trend towards media censorship influenced by powerful militia factions.