Twitter will allow Taliban-affiliated accounts to continue using its platform despite its policies against glorification of violence and threats. With

Twitter Refuses to Ban Taliban Accounts, Vows to Remain ‘Vigilant’ Moderating Content

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2021-08-18 02:30:06

Twitter will allow Taliban-affiliated accounts to continue using its platform despite its policies against glorification of violence and threats.

With the Taliban now regaining control over most of Afghanistan again after the Afghan government collapsed this week, social media companies are now forced to revisit their policies on pro-Taliban accounts either trying to recruit new members from around the globe or spreading disinformation about the ongoing civil war.

MediaIte first reported Tuesday that Twitter said in a statement it would “continue to proactively enforce its rules on glorification of violence, platform manipulation and spam,” but didn’t say it would suspend or ban any specific accounts. MediaIte pointed out that a prominent Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, is still active on the site. With over 300,000 followers, Mujahid was tweeting as recently as Aug. 17 promoting a press conference.

Other pro-Taliban recruiters including those under the names Muhammad Ibrahim and Yousef Ahmandi still have active accounts. Colorado Republican Rep. Doug Lamborn reached out to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey about the issue and argued the Taliban shouldn’t be allowed on the platform because they’re clearly promoting violence.