Saudi Arabia has struck down another communication tool with its ban-hammer, as Viber has now been put on the block list. The Web-based application, which allows users to make free calls, share files, and send instant messages, has been suspended for some vaguely defined failure to comply with regulatory requirements.

The given reason for Viber’s ban is not particularly detailed, but rather a statement is revealing that the company somehow broke an array of local laws. This is following similar bans on tools such as Whatsapp and Skype (News - Alert), as Saudi Arabia continues to reach for greater control over Internet communication and speech.

Internet usage is quite high in Saudi Arabia, with 15.8 million Internet subscribers, and those with relatives in other countries often use online applications like Viber to communicate with them. However, international calls and texts bring in a lot of profit for Saudi telecom operators, so they’re clearly not happy with losing profits to online applications.

Furthermore, reports say that the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) has asked the three main telecom operators in Saudi Arabia if it was possible to monitor or block applications like Viber. Judging by the current news, it’s safe to assume that because they couldn’t monitor said applications, hence the CITC decided to ban it completely.

At the moment, I am reminded of a line from Star Wars: "The more you tighten your grip, Tarkin, the more star systems will slip through your fingers." Such is the case when one attempts to control communications; not only will people work on finding a way around it, but they will do that with more passion and drive, which will also give them more to talk about.

Of course, this is also quite the violation of rights. After all, people should be free to communicate as they see fit, and by denying people that right, well, let’s just call it a bad move for Saudi Arabia. People will find a way around the ban sooner or later, but until then, we can hope that the Saudi government changes its mind.