Saudi Arabia blocks Facebook over moral concerns

Yahoo News, By ABDULLAH AL-SHIHRI, Associated Press – Sat Nov 13, 10:21 am ET

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – An official with Saudi Arabia's communications authority says it has blocked Facebook because the popular social networking website doesn't conform with the kingdom's conservative values.

The official says Saudi's Communications and Information Technology Commission blocked the site Saturday and an error message shows up when Internet users try to access it.

He says Facebook's content had "crossed a line" with the kingdom's conservative morals, but that blocking the site is a temporary measure.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak to the media.

Saudi Arabia follows a strict interpretation of Islam and religious leaders have strong influence over policy making and social mores.

Pakistan and Bangladesh both imposed temporary bans on Facebook this year.

President George H.W. Bush and King Fahd share a laugh during
meetings in Saudi Arabia, Nov. 21, 1990. George Bush
Presidential Library and Museum

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