Ban On Moj News Agency Lifted

An Iranian court has ruled to lift the ban on Moj News Agency, despite it being found guilty of libel and insult. 

Amir Mortazavi, editor-in-chief of Moj News Agency, announced on February 6 that a Press Court had reached the decision and that he had received a letter confirming that the ban would be lifted. 

The editor said Judge Shaghaghi judge ruled on the case, which took place in front of a jury on January 8, 2017 at Branch 6 of Tehran’s Penal Court. In a majority ruling, the jury found Moj, the only privately-owned news agency in Iran, not guilty of  charges of “spreading lies” and “disturbing the public mind.” However, it found the agency guilty on charges of libel and insulting government officials, but that, due to “extenuating circumstances,” the agency should be permitted to resume its work.

Mortazavi thanked the jury and the judge in the case.

In September 4, 2015 internet authorities filtered Moj after a number of government organizations filed a complaint accusing it of libel and insulting government officials. Moj, which was established in 2002, describes its mission as being a commitment to delivering news without bringing in factional and partisan politics. However, in recent years, critics have accused it of being aligned with conservative or principlist  politics. 

According to Islamic Republic News Agency [Persian link] reports, Mortazavi promised Moj would be launching an improved website soon.