jfd – TikTok, the video app known for dancing and fun, has unexpectedly become a battleground for information warfare between Israel and Palestine.
Since the October 7th attack, the conflict in the Middle East has escalated, both on the ground and in the virtual world.
TikTok has become a primary platform for spreading news, images, and opinions about the situation in Gaza and East Jerusalem.
However, Israel’s propaganda, which usually influences Western public opinion, now appears to be failing and outdated.
On the other hand, the pro-Palestinian movement is growing stronger and more popular, especially among the younger generation. What makes the difference this time?
Ridiculous and Insulting Israeli Propaganda
Israel is known for its expertise in public relations and media manipulation.
However, since the October 7th attack, Israel’s propaganda operation has become increasingly weak and unconvincing.
Many claims and evidence presented by the Israeli government and military turn out to be false, exaggerated, or even absurd.
For example, when an Israeli military spokesperson displayed a calendar with day names in Arabic and claimed they were the names of terrorists.
Or when Israel claimed that Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza was a Hamas headquarters, despite no supporting evidence.
Such propaganda indicates that Israel views the Western public as easily deceived fools.
However, this has sparked anger and suspicion among the public, especially those following the conflict on social media.
Heart-wrenching Images from Gaza Elicit Empathy
On the flip side, TikTok and other social media serve as a platform for Palestinians, especially in Gaza, to share images depicting the suffering and destruction caused by Israeli airstrikes.
These images spread widely and go viral, attracting attention and sympathy from millions of users worldwide.
Many people are moved to take action, whether through demonstrations, contributions, or expressing their support for Palestine.
These images also challenge Israel’s narrative, claiming its attacks are selective and proportional, and that Hamas is responsible for the deaths of Palestinian civilians.
Strong and Creative Pro-Palestinian Movement
Apart from images from Gaza, TikTok is also a space for activists and sympathizers to convey messages and information about the conflict.
Many TikTok users use hashtags like #SaveSheikhJarrah, #FreePalestine, or #GazaUnderAttack to share videos about protests, history, facts, or their opinions.
This movement is not limited to TikTok but extends to other social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
It shows that the younger generation, especially in the West, is increasingly aware and concerned about the Palestinian issue and refuses to accept Israeli propaganda outright.
This movement also demonstrates creativity and courage in facing pressure and censorship from pro-Israel entities.
Thus, TikTok has become a factor influencing the dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict, especially in the realm of information and public opinion. The once highly effective Israeli propaganda now appears unsuccessful and outdated.
Meanwhile, the pro-Palestinian movement is growing and gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation.
This indicates that social media has an undeniable power in shaping political narratives and realities.
