TikTok has stated that it is actively and forcefully removing content that praises Osama bin Laden's 2002 "Letter to America." The letter, released about a year after the 9/11 attacks, justifies the targeting and killing of American civilians. TikTok considers content supporting this letter a violation of its rules on promoting terrorism and is taking measures to investigate how such content appeared on the platform. While the number of videos is reportedly small, TikTok acknowledges the issue's presence across various platforms and the media.
Some videos promoting bin Laden's message have garnered significant views and likes. The media reference in the statement pertains to user frustration directed at The Guardian, which had initially published the translated version of bin Laden's letter but later removed it, directing readers to the news article providing context.
Bin Laden's letter criticizes American foreign policy, contains antisemitic and violent language, and condemns U.S. support for Israel's occupation of Palestine. TikTok, a widely popular app among young Americans, is taking action to address this issue.
As for recent sentiments among young voters, a Quinnipiac University poll shows a shift, with 52 percent of voters aged 18-34 expressing more sympathy for Palestinians, marking a reversal from the previous month's poll.
For context, The Guardian had initially published the letter on the same day bin Laden released it in 2002 but removed it after it was widely shared on social media without full context.
