Elon Musk, owner of the social network X (formerly Twitter), has been issued an ultimatum by the European Union (EU) to remove graphic images and disinformation related to the violence in Israel from the platform by the end of Wednesday. Failure to comply could result in X facing penalties under Europe’s new social media rules outlined in the Digital Services Act (DSA).
Thierry Breton, the EU commissioner overseeing the DSA rules, sent a warning to Musk, emphasizing the obligations under the bloc’s content rules. If Musk does not adhere to the directive, X may face fines of up to 6 percent of its revenue for potential wrongdoing. The DSA regulations mandate social media companies to swiftly remove hate speech, incitement to violence, and other forms of graphic content or propaganda promoting terrorist organizations.
Following recent violent attacks by Hamas on Israel, X has been inundated with graphic images, videos, and hashtags depicting the violence. X’s own policies dictate the immediate removal of such material.
In a letter posted on X late Tuesday, Breton urged Musk to provide a prompt, accurate, and complete response within the next 24 hours, stating, “We will include your answer in our assessment file on your compliance with the DSA.”
Meanwhile, Michelle Donelan, the British minister overseeing the UK’s online content rulebook, plans to meet with media companies, including Google, Meta, X, TikTok, and Snapchat, to remind them of their obligations in removing content related to antisemitism and extreme violence following the Hamas attacks.
Donelan, in a post on X, emphasized the UK’s action to stand in solidarity with Israel and its Jewish community. A representative for X has not yet responded to requests for comment.
In response to Breton’s post on X, Musk requested clarification on how X potentially violated Europe’s content rules. Musk stated, “Our policy is that everything is open source and transparent.” Breton responded by saying, “Up to you to demonstrate that you walk the talk.”
