Meta Apologizes for Removing Malaysian PM's Posts on Hamas Leader

Meta Platforms Inc. has issued an apology for the removal of posts by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that honored Ismail Haniyeh, a Hamas leader killed last month. The company acknowledged an "operational error" in its content moderation process, stating that the posts have been restored with the appropriate newsworthy label. Prime Minister Ibrahim had condemned Haniyeh's assassination, reflecting Malaysia's stance against Israel, with which it has no diplomatic relations. In addition to the post removals, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) expressed concern over the suspension of a Facebook Live broadcast from Malaysian national broadcaster RTM, which covered a pro-Palestinian rally attended by Ibrahim. Meta explained that the live-stream was halted due to an intellectual property complaint regarding music. The PMO criticized Meta's actions as discriminatory and a suppression of free expression, demanding a public apology and a detailed explanation. The PMO's statement emphasized that Meta's content moderation practices are seen as an affront to the Palestinian people's struggle for justice and human rights. Following a meeting between Meta officials and the PMO, the company issued its apology, acknowledging the impact of its actions on free expression. The assassination of Haniyeh, reportedly linked to a short-range projectile from Iran's Revolutionary Guard, has raised concerns about escalating tensions in the region, particularly regarding potential retaliation from Iran against Israel, which could lead to a broader conflict.