The Desk appreciates the support of readers who purchase products or services through links on our website. Learn more...

Facebook briefly pulls page used by Iranian state broadcaster

The logo of Iranian state broadcaster Press TV. (Graphic by The Desk)

The Facebook page used by Iranian state-run news outlet Press TV was briefly pulled from the social media site on Tuesday, according to information provided by the broadcaster.

In a Twitter post, a Press TV spokesperson said no warning was given before Facebook decided to pull the page, and it wasn’t clear why the page was removed.

Press TV officials filed an appeal with Facebook, and the page was restored a few hours later, though it lacked Facebook’s official “verified” badge.

More than 3 million people follow Press TV on Facebook. The broadcaster, which is operated by the Iranian state government, produces news reports and documentaries in English for a worldwide audience. It competes internationally with other government-run English-language news channels, including RT, Deutsche Welle and Al Jazeera English.

It’s not the first time a social media company has blocked Press TV from accessing its services: Last September, Google-owned YouTube suspended Press TV’s official account, citing “violations of export laws” as its reason behind the move.

Press TV maintains its reporting is unbiased, though it has drawn criticism for some news bulletins in the past that were viewed as skewing toward official and misleading accounts promoted by the government of Iran.

In 2012, Press TV’s broadcast license was revoked in the United Kingdom after regulators there determined the Iranian government had closer editorial control over the channel than was disclosed when it applied for the license. Press TV called the license revocation a “clear instance of censorship.”

Never miss a story

Get free breaking news alerts and twice-weekly digests delivered to your inbox.

We do not share your e-mail address with third parties; you can unsubscribe at any time.

Photo of author

About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is a nationally recognized, award-winning journalist with over a decade of experience reporting on the business of media, broadcast television, streaming video platforms and emerging technology. He is the founder, publisher, and editor of TheDesk.net, a trusted source for in-depth news and analysis on the evolving media landscape.

Matthew’s reporting has appeared in major industry outlets, including StreamTV Insider, Digital Content Next and KnowTechie, where he covers topics at the intersection of journalism, streaming services, and digital media innovation. Throughout his career, he has held editorial roles at respected organizations such as Thomson Reuters, Tribune Media, the Disney-ABC Television Group and McNaughton Newspapers.

Known for his accuracy, clarity, and deep industry insight, Matthew continues to provide reliable reporting and thought leadership in a rapidly changing media environment. His work is frequently cited by industry leaders, analysts, and trade publications.