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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has restored access to X (formerly Twitter) for its citizens, ending months of restrictions that were enforced following the controversial February 2024 elections.
The lifting of the ban allows users to access the social media platform directly. Previously, VPNs or proxy services were the only workaround since the ban.
The decision comes at a time when tensions between Pakistan and India have sharply escalated following a series of military strikes. On Tuesday night, India launched missile strikes, which Pakistan has condemned as “cowardly.” In retaliation, Pakistan claims to have shot down more than five Indian jets and captured several Indian soldiers.
The platform was blocked in February 2024. This followed allegations of election rigging and protests in Pakistan. The government justified the ban for national security reasons. They also cited the need to maintain public order during political unrest.
However, the recent military exchanges between the two nations appear to have prompted the Pakistani government to reverse its stance.
No official statement has been released about why the ban was lifted. However, restoring access to X shows a change in how the country handles online platforms during the ongoing conflict. This move also lets Pakistani citizens stay updated with real-time news and share important information during the crisis.
