Turkey Blocks Instagram Amid Censorship Claims

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused Instagram of 'digital fascism' following the platform's blocking in Turkey, which began on August 2, 2024. Erdogan claimed that the ban was a response to Instagram's alleged censorship of posts expressing condolences for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. While Turkish officials stated that the ban was due to Instagram's failure to comply with local regulations, many believe the action stems from the removal of posts supportive of Palestinians. Erdogan has emphasized that social media companies should respect Turkey's values and laws, which he feels are being ignored. Meanwhile, the opposition parties and the Ankara bar have initiated legal actions against the ban, highlighting the growing tensions over digital censorship in Turkey. Negotiations between the government and Instagram representatives have yet to yield results, leaving millions of users in Turkey without access to the platform.