The app is stirring up heated discussions in the US, proving that even America’s most-loved socials app can raise red flags.
Marrakech – TikTok users in the United States are raising alarms over reports that comments containing the phrase “Free Palestine” are being flagged as hate speech.
The controversy erupted just days after the platform was temporarily banned and then reinstated by an executive order from President Donald Trump.
Prior to the brief ban, TikTok was one of the few major platforms considered to allow pro-Palestinian content without bias.
However, screenshots and videos circulating on X, formerly known as Twitter, highlight comments being removed for allegedly violating TikTok’s hate speech rules.
One viral video, viewed more than eight million times, showcases a notification from TikTok that flagged the phrase “Free Palestine” for “hate speech and hateful behaviours.”
The video has fueled widespread outrage, with users on X accusing the platform of silencing Palestinian advocacy.
The backlash has also ignited broader concerns about TikTok’s moderation policies and whether they are influenced by political pressures stemming from its recent legal and political disputes.
Responding to the allegations, a TikTok spokesperson denied any bias against pro-Palestinian content, stating, “Our community guidelines apply equally to all content on TikTok. TikTok does not moderate or remove content based on political sensitivities. We remove content if it violates community guidelines, but not on the basis of it being pro-Palestinian.”
As the controversy continues to escalate, many users are questioning the transparency of TikTok’s moderation processes and its commitment to supporting free expression on the platform.
