Meta removes Iran's leader from Instagram and Facebook
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (Getty Images)
The social media accounts of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei were recently removed from Facebook and Instagram, which are owned by Meta, according to the Associated Press.
Meta did not specify the main reason but it may be related to Iran's support for Hamas.
“We do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms,” the company's policy says.
This statement particularly applies to those recognized as terrorists by the U.S. government, including Hamas.
Khamenei's stance on social media
Khamenei and accounts associated with him praised Hamas' attack on Israel. Immediately after the attack, Khamenei voiced his support for Hamas in his speech.
“We kiss the hands of those who planned the attack on the Zionist regime," he said.
However, Khamenei still has an account on X, where he has over 1 million followers.
War in Israel
Hamas militants invaded Israel on October 7, 2023. The terrorists killed and kidnapped both military and civilians. Shortly after, Jerusalem announced Operation Iron Swords and targeted terrorist locations in the Gaza Strip.
A temporary ceasefire between Tel Aviv and the militants began on November 24 to facilitate the release of prisoners. By December 1, hostilities resumed, according to Israel, because of Hamas violating the terms of the ceasefire.
On December 14, the White House stated that the United States advocated for the war to end as soon as possible. On the same day, Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, said that the war could last several more months.
U.S. President Joe Biden said Israel was losing global support due to "indiscriminate bombing" in the Gaza Strip. The UN General Assembly voted by majority to demand a ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that international pressure will not halt the war against Hamas.
