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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has admitted that his government views social media platforms as strategic tools essential for influencing US public opinion, particularly in the context of global condemnation over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Speaking at Israel’s Consulate General in New York during a meeting with US influencers, Netanyahu described social media as “the most important weapon … to secure our base in the US,” according to a video shared on influencer Debra Lea’s X account.
Netanyahu highlighted TikTok as “the most important purchase going on right now,” suggesting that its control could prove “consequential.”
He also referred to X, adding: “We have to talk to Elon (Musk). He’s not an enemy, he’s a friend,” asserting that securing influence over these platforms would yield significant benefits for Israel.
The comments come shortly after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order approving a deal to shift TikTok’s US operations to an American consortium, including Oracle, Michael Dell, and Rupert Murdoch, citing national security requirements.
Concerns have been raised that Oracle founder Larry Ellison’s longstanding support for Israel could allow the company to use TikTok to favour Israeli interests.
Netanyahu’s remarks arrive as Israel faces growing international isolation over its military campaign in Gaza, where nearly 65,600 Palestinians—most of them women and children—have died since October 2023.
At the 80th UN General Assembly session, Netanyahu addressed a largely empty hall after many delegations staged walkouts in protest at the ongoing conflict.
