Meta no longer deletes Facebook accounts or pages from Armenia and Artsakh for posting photos or mentions of national hero Monte Melkonian. This was announced on Facebook by information technology specialist Samvel Hayrapetyan.

“Over recent years, Facebook repeatedly restricted user access when they posted images of the First Artsakh War hero,” Hayrapetyan noted.

He stated: “Let’s officially note:

Meta no longer deletes profiles, pages, or groups for using Monte Melkonian’s image, name, or story.

Sometimes, his image is removed temporarily, but it is usually restored after an appeal. Posts containing his full name are also sometimes taken down but typically reinstated upon contesting.

It is very important to frequently share the commander’s photos and stories. It's also crucial to use his full name regularly and to appeal every removal by Meta—this is how we win.”

He emphasized that Meta's content moderation relies on automated filters—bots that remove content based on keywords and images. Persistent appeals could eventually move the issue from automated filters to human moderators, but this requires a sustained and united national effort.

He added: “Right now, our concern is Monte. But in the future, it could be another great figure. We must protect our heroes, history, and identity. The image here was deleted by Meta but reinstated after I appealed. Generally, once restored, posts aren’t removed again.”

Monte assumed command of the Martuni defense district in 1992. Under his leadership, Martuni became Artsakh’s most fortified and combat-ready region. In March-April 1993, he led the liberation of Karvachar.

On June 12, 1993, after a major operation against Agdam's firing positions, Monte descended from his command post to personally assess the situation and position his troops. Near the village of Marzili, an enemy armored vehicle suddenly appeared. A fragment from a rocket it fired fatally wounded the commander.