TEHRAN: Iran has accused social media platform X of removing verification badges from accounts linked to its foreign ministry, describing the move as “selective censorship” despite active paid subscriptions.
According to a statement shared on X by Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, the blue verification marks were removed from his account as well as the official profiles of Iran’s foreign ministry and foreign minister.
X has now removed the blue check from Iran’s MFA Spokesperson’s account—after stripping the Ministry and Minister’s verified badges—despite our full Premium+ payments.
This arbitrary de-verification fits X’s pattern of selective censorship and American digital piracy, aimed at…— Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) May 5, 2026
The statement described the action as “arbitrary de-verification” and alleged that it formed part of a broader effort to limit the visibility of Iranian narratives regarding the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
There was no immediate response from X regarding the allegations.
Western technology platforms
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region following the outbreak of conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel earlier this year.
Tehran has repeatedly criticised Western technology platforms and media outlets over what it claims is unequal treatment of Iranian accounts and viewpoints.
Iran has also taken measures affecting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route responsible for around 20 percent of worldwide oil and gas flows.
The disruption has contributed to rising energy prices and growing concerns over global supply chains.
The latest dispute involving X highlights the increasingly important role social media platforms play in geopolitical conflicts, particularly as governments and officials rely on digital platforms to communicate narratives and diplomatic positions to global audiences.
