Istanbul (Web Desk): The Turkish government has imposed widespread restrictions on access to major social media platforms across the country. Platforms affected include Twitter (now known as X), YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, and several others.
According to international monitoring organization NetBlocks, the restrictions were implemented during protests organized by the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP). The CHP had demanded public rallies around their headquarters in Istanbul, protesting police barriers and restrictions in the area. In response, the government took measures to limit access to social media networks.
British news agency Reuters, citing Turkey's Freedom of Expression Association, reported that these restrictions began on Sunday evening at approximately 8:45 PM local time, when the bandwidth for the affected platforms was significantly reduced.
The Access Providers Union of Turkey, responsible for enforcing internet blocking decisions, has so far declined to comment on the restrictions imposed on social media.
This move marks another escalation in the ongoing tensions between the government and opposition forces, raising concerns about freedom of expression and access to information within Turkey.