Pakistan restores access to X after months-long ban

Pakistan has restored access to X months after imposing a ban following its controversial February 2024 general elections, despite earlier claims that the platform posed a national security threat.

Pakistan lifted its months-long ban on X, formerly known as Twitter, restoring access to the platform across the country.

The internet watchdog NetBlocks confirmed the development, saying: “Confirmed: Metrics show access to X has been restored in #Pakistan as conflict breaks out with neighbouring India,” in a post on X.

The platform was originally blocked in February 2024 after Pakistan’s general elections, which were marred by accusations of vote manipulation and unrest. During the months that followed, the government maintained its position, arguing in court that the social media platform represented a threat to national security and therefore could not be reinstated.

In July, authorities told a local court that X’s operations posed risks, further cementing the government’s stance on digital censorship. The sudden reversal on Wednesday comes as regional tensions escalate, though officials have yet to comment publicly on the restoration.

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