Hasan Piker aka HasanAbi responds after Twitch ban over 'repeated violations', internet slams streamer: 'You should be in prison'
Hasan Piker, better known online as HasanAbi, is once again at the centre of controversy—this time for getting banned from Twitch after making posts about on motive behind the Israeli embassy shooting in Washington, DC. The 33-year-old streamer acknowledged the suspension in a statement and called on the platform to change its policy, but many online weren't buying it.
The incident in question involved 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez, who fatally shot two Israeli embassy staffers near a Jewish museum earlier this week. As he was arrested, Rodriguez reportedly shouted 'Free Palestine.' Authorities have confirmed the case is being investigated as both a hate crime and an act of terrorism, with a court hearing scheduled for June 18.
Twitch bans HasanAbi from Twitch over 'sharing content related to terrorist'
HasanAbi's suspension came shortly after he discussed Rodriguez's manifesto on stream. Twitch later issued a notice stating that his content violated their policy on handling terrorist propaganda. According to the platform, 'sharing content related to terrorist or violent extremist groups' is strictly prohibited, even if the discussion is meant to be critical or journalistic.
'In reviewing your activity or content, we've issued a global suspension on your account,' Twitch wrote in its official notice to Hasan. 'Repeated violations may lead to more serious actions, including longer suspensions or permanent bans.'
Hasan responds, 'Bad policy for news and press freedom'
Piker didn't shy away from the controversy and posted a response, explaining his intent and frustrations.
'I covered the motives of the Israeli embassy staff shooter,' he wrote. 'Twitch TOS dictates a suspension for even critical examination of the manifesto. I believe this is a bad policy for news and press freedom. I'll take the suspension but hope Twitch changes this policy in the future.'
i covered the motives of the israeli embassy staff shooter. twitch tos dictates a suspension for even critical examination of the manifesto. i believe this is a bad policy for news and press freedom.ill take the suspension, but hope twitch changes this policy in the future. pic.twitter.com/52nOS0Lq9H
He also noted that he had examined the shooter's writings critically, not to endorse them, but to analyze them from a journalistic angle. However, the timing didn't sit well with many, especially given that just two days before the shooting, Piker hosted a livestream with George 'Bad Empanada' Ganitis, a content creator known for making repeated anti-Israel remarks.
Internet slams Hasan Piker: This should've happened sooner'
While Piker has a loyal fanbase, the reaction online was mixed, and many users didn't hold back. 'Promoting hate will get you banned,' one user wrote bluntly.
Another added, 'Maybe don't support terrorism?'
Some responses were more critical of Hasan's overall tone and approach. 'Stop just immediately going on the defensive. Take some time for reflection… it is OK to be wrong,' one commenter said, urging him to reconsider the impact of his words.
'This should've happened way sooner,' said another. 'You've been spewing hateful and violent rhetoric for years.'
Promoting hate will get you banned...
Maybe don't support terrorism?
This shouldve happened way sooner. You've been spewing hateful and violent rhetoric for years. Dan Clancy loves you too much though you'll be back in a day
You should be in prison, not just banned from Twitch. You're inspiring people to kill innocent people for no reason other than you said with your own shit filled mouth to do so. But thank God (not Allah) that you say "in Minecraft!" To cover your ass. Also tell us what really…
It's unclear how long the suspension will last, but Hasan's absence is already sparking debate around content moderation, journalism, and free speech on livestreaming platforms.
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