“It’s just a theory” can have severe connotations if the subtext is as volatile as a literal war. Any unsubstantiated claim, observation, or opinion masked as a theory can imply the most radical stance.
What makes a theory even more problematic is when it is based on a conspiracy. When millions of lives are hanging by a loose thread, and others are taken hostages, a rogue theory, misinformed statement, or accusations can trigger a domino effect. Only in this case are the dominoes replaced by innocent lives.
The following case demonstrates how propagating opinions as facts can land you in hot waters, even if you own the most extensive #FreeSpeech platform.
Elon Musk endorsed a tweet that spread a conspiracy theory that Progressive Jews are advocating mass immigration from the Global South has replaced white people in the West.
Elon Musk agreed that the “Great Replacement” post on November 15, 2023, which is just a conspiracy theory, is “the actual truth.” This led to a massive backlash against Musk, calling him out for his “anti-semitic” sentiments. Hence, he visited Israel to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and extend support to the hostages and victims of the Hamas attack. In truth, Elon Musk is not Jewish. His ancestry stems from South Africa.
The Reason For Elon Musk’s Visit to Israel
A tweet sent in a second has tremors of butterfly effect in the actual war, recording a death toll of over 1400 Israelis and more than 12000 in Gaza. Over the past month, the Israel-Hamas conflict has triggered racism, bigotry, and blatant hatred worldwide.
Several celebrities, corporations, and common people are either getting canceled or fired for expressing radical opinions or instigating hate speech.
Even the owner of the biggest social media platform is susceptible to cancel culture.
An unwarranted tweet on November 15 by a random user falsely claimed that the “White people” are on the cusp of the “Great Replacement” since the progressive Jews are aiding the immigration from the Global South.
Mr. Musk thought this was a good idea to let loose his innermost thoughts. He agreed with the conspiracy theory, deeming it as “the actual truth.” This did not sit well with pro-Israel sentiments, as netizens, the US and Israeli Government, as well as his own followers, condemned his actions.
Musk retracted his agreement and apologized for what people believed to be an “anti-Semitic” gesture.
He then visited the kibbutz that Hamas attacked on October 7, 2023, to see the plight of the victims and their families. After a one-on-one meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Musk issued a formal statement released by Herzog’s office–
“We have to do whatever is necessary to stop the hate,”
“Essentially, these people have been fed propaganda since they were children. And it’s remarkable what humans are capable of if they’re fed falsehoods; from when they are children, they will think that the murder of innocent people is a good thing.”
“That is how much propaganda can affect people’s minds.”
The Tesla CEO also met with Israel’s president, Isaac Herzog, to discuss the truce between the two nations and his stance on the growing unrest and global anti-semitism.
Per a few reports, Musk also met with the families of the hostages and extended his condolences.
Fact Check: Is Elon Musk Jewish?
Due to Elon Musk’s impromptu visit to Israel, certain speculations floated on X that raised questions about his heritage. Some netizens believe that Musk must be Jewish to extend such stern support to Israel. This is, in fact, not true.
Elon Musk is not Jewish. Musk was born to a South African father and a Canadian mother. He is of mixed heritage. But nowhere does his background mention that Elon Musk has any Jewish roots.
Musk visited Israel for the sole purpose of expressing his disdain for the Hamas attack, showing his genuine support, and party for damage PR control. Just read below the list of endorsers who are ready to pull the plug from X.
As per the latest update, #ElonGoToGaza is trending on X, as Netizens believe that Musk’s visit to Israel is a clear indication of taking sides and disparaging the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
What is your take on this? Do you think Elon Musk’s visit to Israel was propaganda or his genuine concern for the war?
Will his Starlink project help in neutralizing the communications in Israel and Gaza? Do you agree with netizens who think he should visit Gaza as well?
Let us know in the comments section below.
