"Jordan: The blocking of news websites is a grave violation of freedom of expression and the right to access information" 23 May 2025

On 14 May 2025, the Jordanian Media Commission issued an order for ISPs to block at least 12 news websites, most of which are independent media outlets. The decision lacked an official detailed announcement, including the legal basis for the blocking. Instead, authorities provided vague justifications through media channels, invoking broad and imprecise terms such as “spreading media poison” and “targeting national symbols,” without specifying the facts or evidence upon which the ban was based. There has been no indication that affected outlets were offered any opportunity to appeal or challenge the decision before an independent court, raising serious due process concerns.

The timing of the ban strongly suggests it was in direct response to investigative reports alleging that official Jordanian institutions profited from the coordination of humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza. Following these reports, the media outlets involved faced a smear-and-intimidation campaign. Access to some sites was gradually restricted, until, on 14 May, authorities imposed a total ban....

Statements from public officials accusing the blocked sites of spreading false news further reflect the lack of any procedural framework that would enable these outlets to respond or defend themselves. There is no evidence of judicial oversight regarding the decision, nor has there been any formal publication of the list of banned sites or the legal basis for their censorship...

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