EU Probes Elon Musk's X Platform over Alleged Middle East Disinformation Proliferation

The European Commission announced on Thursday that it will open a probe into Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, previously known as Twitter. The investigation seeks to ascertain whether the platform has amplified the spread of disinformation related to the conflict in the Middle East.

Following indications received about the "presumed transmission of illicit content", Brussels has initiated the first procedure under its new European Digital Services Act (DSA). The Commission's inquiry is marked by a formal request for information sent to X and comprises a 40-page questionnaire intended to elicit detailed clarification. X has a deadline until October 18 for core elements, and October 31 for less urgent aspects of the information request.

Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton, mentioned that safeguarding citizenry and democratic institutions is crucial in providing a credible information source and safe user environment, more so in crisis scenarios. Despite previous claims from the European Union, X, under CEO Linda Yaccarino, maintains that the firm has diligently addressed disinformation surrounding the Gaza-Israel conflict.

Furthermore, X asserts its action to delete or label countless inappropriate content pieces and removal of multiple accounts associated with Hamas.

Simultaneously, Commissioner Breton has raised similar concerns with Facebook parent company Meta's CEO Mark Zuckerberg and TikTok's Shou Zi Chew. Breton's main concern hinged on protective measures these platforms implemented to crackdown on disinformation.

Larger online platforms are now under the EU's DSA. Non-compliance could lead to mandatory remedial action, substantial financial penalties, or even platform prohibition in Europe. Musk’s platform X is under the radar, primarily due to significant staff reductions, including content moderators, following its acquisition from Twitter for $44 billion last year.