Iraq media regulator suspends Al-Ula TV program for 10 days, fines channel

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Media and Communications Commission said it has suspended "With Muna Sami," a program broadcast on Al-Ula Iraq Television, for 10 days and imposed a 25 million dinar administrative fine on the channel. The commission said it found clear violations of the Broadcasting Regulations during an episode aired on June 21, 2026. According to the regulator, the episode breached Article 1 of the regulations, which prohibits incitement to violence and hatred, and Article 4, which governs accuracy, integrity and transparency in the dissemination of information. The commission also said the broadcaster failed to comply with Circular No. 2026/55, which obliges media outlets to guide their guests on the accuracy of the information they present. The commission gave the channel five days from the date of notification to address the violation and issue a formal apology. The decision was issued under the violations framework for media outlets in Iraq, approved by the Council of Presidents. No immediate response from Al-Ula Iraq Television was reported. Further details were not immediately available.