Telegram blocks Hamas channels on Android due to Google's pressure

Telegram has blocked two Hamas channels, hamas_com and al-Qassam brigades, on Android phones due to violations of Google's app store guidelines. The ban does not extend to the app when downloaded from elsewhere or used on another operating system. Google confirmed that the ban was in line with its policy on violent content related to terrorism. While other social media platforms like Meta and X have taken action to block Hamas-linked accounts, Telegram has generally been more lenient with moderation. The EU's Digital Services Act has given governments enforcement power over social media content moderation, and Telegram has faced pressure from governments in the past to take action.