Following the recent series of attacks initiated by Hamas on Israel, the popular social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, responded swiftly by taking down a significant number of Hamas-linked accounts. In an official statement, the platform stressed its uncompromising stance against terrorist organizations, affirming, “There is no place on X for terrorist organizations or violent extremist groups.”
Linda Yaccarino, the CEO of X, emphasized the platform’s commitment to fostering open discussions, particularly during critical times. She underscored the importance of addressing any illegal content disseminated through the platform, stating, “X is committed to serving the public conversation, especially in critical moments like this, and understands the importance of addressing any illegal content that may be disseminated through the platform.”
The urgency of X’s response was precipitated by a 24-hour ultimatum issued by Thierry Breton, the European Union industry chief, directed towards Elon Musk, urging stringent measures to counter the spread of disinformation on the platform and ensure compliance with the latest EU online content regulations. Breton voiced concerns over the platform’s alleged facilitation of the distribution of illegal content and disinformation within the European Union.
Under the newly implemented EU Digital Services Act (DSA), which places greater responsibility on large online platforms like X and Meta’s Facebook, to actively remove illegal content and address threats to public security and civil discourse, the microblogging platform has intensified its efforts.
Yaccarino highlighted that in response to the recent attacks, the platform had established a dedicated leadership group to promptly assess the situation. Addressing Breton in a letter, Yaccarino expressed the platform’s willingness to engage further with the EU, stating, “We stand ready to work with your team, including arranging a meeting to address any specific concerns.”
Furthermore, X reported that it had promptly responded to more than 80 takedown requests from the EU within the specified timeframe and had not received any notices from Europol concerning illegal content on its platform, as detailed in the letter.
In a parallel development, Thierry Breton directed a warning to Meta on October 9, setting a 24-hour deadline for the company to provide information about the steps taken to combat the dissemination of disinformation through its platforms in the aftermath of the Hamas attack on Israel.
Meanwhile, The Times of Israel highlighted a significant escalation in the death toll within Israel, reporting a staggering count of 1,300 casualties since the Hamas attack on October 7. The report also indicated that the fate of approximately 150 individuals abducted and taken to the Gaza Strip during the Hamas attack remains uncertain.
Also Read: US Secy Blinken highlights civilian suffering, security concerns amid Israel-Hamas war
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