Iraq tries to block social media, hoping to block rebel communications

The Iraqi Ministry of Communications recently issued an order to block access to social media websites and YouTube, in an effort to clamp down on communications by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The crackdown also targeted journalists and bloggers, with political tensions rising in Iraq, local media indicated.

Users trying to access social media websites are being greeted by an error page, informing them of the government-ordered block. Unfortunately, it seems unlikely that a website ban will prevent ISIS from sharing propaganda videos and news of their continued efforts in Iraq.

ISIS has growing control of towns and cities located in northern and western Iraq, including the second biggest city in the country, Mosul. The situation has grown so dire that Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki released a statement saying civilians will be armed - and local rebel groups also are recruiting new members to fight.