Twitch issues clarification for why new sign-ups were blocked in Israel and Palestine

Twitch has addressed the confusion surrounding blocked account sign-ups in Israel and Palestine, clarifying that the issue was related to temporary restrictions on email-based verification. The streaming giant faced criticism after users from both regions reported difficulties in creating accounts, as reported by Israel-based publication, YNET. People who were trying to sign up to Twitch via their email accounts in Israel and Palestine were getting an error stating “Oops! We encountered an unexpected error. Please try again.” Naturally, this led to concerns over intentional targeting.

Twitch’s explanation

Twitch’s announcement on X explained that following the October 7, 2023, attacks, the platform temporarily disabled email verification in both Israel and Palestine. This step aimed to prevent the spread of graphic content related to the attacks and ensure user safety. According to Twitch, phone-based sign-ups were still available during this time, but the platform admitted it overlooked re-enabling email verification afterward, causing unintended issues.

“We deeply regret this unacceptable miss and the confusion it has caused,” Twitch said in its statement. They confirmed that the error has now been corrected, and users in both regions can once again register using email verification.

We wanted to address concerns we’ve seen about whether we’re preventing Twitch account sign ups in some regions.

When signing up for a Twitch account, you can select an account verification method – email or phone – for added protection. Following the October 7, 2023 attacks, we…

— Twitch Support (@TwitchSupport) October 21, 2024

Backlash and user reactions

The temporary sign-up issue drew mixed reactions online. Some users voiced skepticism over Twitch’s explanation, questioning why the platform hadn’t taken similar steps during other global conflicts, primarily Russia and Ukraine. Criticism also emerged around Twitch’s handling of community guidelines enforcement, with users accusing the company of inconsistent moderation.

One Twitter user remarked, “So you disabled Israelis from making accounts but fully promote terrorist sympathizers like Hasan [Piker]?” Others highlighted frustrations with high-profile streamers on the platform, suggesting that Twitch selectively enforces its rules. Another user commented, “There was famously no graphic material in Ukraine… but you did nothing.”

The sign-up controversy comes as Twitch faces growing criticism over its content moderation. Decisions like reinstating controversial figures, such as Sneako and the Fresh & Fit podcast, both previously removed for anti-Semitic and misogynistic behavior, have raised concerns about inconsistent enforcement. Twitch insists it applies its rules fairly across all content and regions, but many users remain skeptical, demanding stronger action against hate speech and politically charged content.

Are you satisfied with Twitch’s explanation? Let us know in the comments section below.