Gulf Arab nations ask Netflix to remove ‘offensive’ videos

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Gulf Arab countries have asked Netflix to remove “offensive content” on the streaming service, apparently targeting programs that show people who are gay and lesbian. A statement issued on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council made the request, saying the unspecified programs “contradict Islamic and societal values and principles.” The council members are Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Netflix hasn’t responded. Many Muslims consider gays and lesbians to be sinful. In some parts of the Arab world, members of the LGBTQ community have been jailed. The move also comes as regional streaming services try to eat into Netflix’s revenue, including the Shahid service operated by the Saudi-owned MBC Group.