Iraq media regulator bans Saudi broadcaster from Iraqi TV channels for 30 days

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Communications and Media Commission has banned Saudi media figure Mohammed Al-Maleh from broadcasting on Iraqi television channels for 30 days, citing social media posts deemed insulting toward Iraq. The commission said the decision was issued in response to content Al-Maleh published on social media that was found to contain insults directed at Iraq. The body added that the material offended Iraqi public opinion and that such broadcasts would not be permitted. Alongside the ban, the regulator announced it would refer the case to the judicial authorities to pursue legal action against Al-Maleh. The move marks the Iraqi media regulator's use of its authority to oversee the activities of foreign media figures operating in the country. No further details on the specific posts or the legal proceedings were immediately available.