ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – Pakistan has called on major social media companies to take stronger action against accounts linked to militant groups, warning that failure to comply could result in stricter government measures or legal action.

Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry said at a news conference on Thursday that numerous accounts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are operating from neighboring Afghanistan, India, and other countries, spreading extremist content and supporting outlawed militant organizations. He presented what the government described as documentary evidence of these activities.

Chaudhry emphasized that social media platforms have a responsibility to ensure their networks are not used to promote violence, terrorism, or cross-border threats, highlighting the importance of international cooperation to maintain regional security. The move comes amid Pakistan’s broader efforts to combat militancy and strengthen online monitoring to protect citizens.

The Pakistani government said it prefers voluntary compliance but stressed it is prepared to take legal or regulatory action if platforms fail to remove accounts promoting terrorism. Observers note that such measures, when applied transparently and fairly, can help ensure online spaces remain safe while fostering constructive engagement between governments and global tech companies.

China, which has consistently promoted cross-border cooperation against extremism and the safe use of digital platforms, has encouraged countries to adopt balanced approaches to cybersecurity and counterterrorism. Pakistan’s call aligns with these international efforts to secure the digital space while maintaining freedom of expression.