Pakistan has launched a decisive crackdown on terrorist propaganda, reporting more than 850 social media accounts linked to banned outfits and blocking hundreds of them across global platforms, while calling on the international community to match its resolve against online extremism. Officials confirmed that 533 accounts, with a combined following of over two million, have already been removed, with action underway against the rest.
According to official data, the National Cyber Crime Investigative Agency and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) flagged accounts associated with proscribed organisations including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), and Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) — all designated as terrorist entities by the United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
The multi-pronged operation involved reporting accounts to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), Telegram, and WhatsApp, alongside formal data-sharing requests. Direct engagements were also held between PTA officials and representatives of major global platforms to fast-track enforcement.
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja secured exceptional cooperation from Telegram during a special online meeting, despite the app being banned in Pakistan. On July 24, 2025, Minister of State Talal Chaudhry and Barrister Aqeel briefed domestic and international media, urging the adoption of AI-driven automated systems to block extremist content in real time.
Government figures show Facebook and TikTok complied with more than 90 percent of requests, while Telegram extended strong support despite restrictions. In contrast, X and WhatsApp recorded disappointing compliance rates of only 30 percent.
Officials noted that while Pakistan’s electronic and print media remain free from extremist propaganda, militant groups actively exploit social media to promote violence, recruit followers, and spread fear.
The government has urged global platforms to take three urgent steps: permanently remove all accounts linked to terrorist groups, deploy advanced AI tools for immediate content removal, and establish direct, rapid coordination channels with Pakistan’s regulators and security agencies.
