In a recent announcement on his social media platform, X, Elon Musk revealed that the platform will donate all its advertising revenue associated with the conflict in Gaza to hospitals in Israel and the Red Cross/Crescent in Gaza.
The decision comes amidst Israel’s War on Gaza, resulting in over 14,000 casualties due to Israeli bombardments in the densely populated Gaza Strip. In Israel, the official death toll from Hamas’s attacks stands at about 1,200. Hospitals in northern Gaza are now completely out of service, according to the besieged enclave’s Ministry of Health. The lack of fuel has led to communications shutdowns, shuttered water stations, hospital closures, and reduced aid deliveries across Gaza.
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Addressing concerns raised by users about the possibility of the donated amount ending up in the hands of Hamas militants, Musk stated that the company would track how the funds are spent. He said, "We will track how funds are spent and go through Red Cross/Crescent. Better ideas are welcome."
"We should care about the innocent regardless of race, creed, religion, or anything else," Musk added.
Last month, Musk revealed that his satellite network, Starlink, would provide connectivity to recognised aid organisations in Gaza.The support became crucial after communication and internet services were disrupted in the region. Starlink, developed by Musk’s SpaceX, aims to provide low-cost internet access to remote areas and plans to deploy as many as 42,000 satellites in its mega constellation.
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The decision to donate advertising revenue follows criticism faced by X for the presence of antisemitic posts and a pause in campaigns by advertisers due to concerns about their ads appearing near antisemitic content. This resulted in a high-profile advertiser revolt involving major media companies such as Disney, Paramount, NBCUniversal, Comcast, Lionsgate, and Warner Bros. X has encountered challenges with a decline in advertiser support.
In the latest development, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a Qatar-mediated deal for a four-day truce in Gaza and the release of 50 captives held in the enclave. As part of the agreement, 150 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli jails will be freed.
