An Open Letter to 'Pro-Palestinian' Influencers
Who needs books, documentaries, historians, and first-person testimonies when we have overly edited ego-maniacs and self-righteous virtue-signalers screaming from atop their ivory towers, like you?
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Dear “Pro-Palestinian” Social Media Influencers,
First and foremost, let me extend my heartfelt appreciation for your tireless efforts in championing the “Palestinian” cause — through the sacred medium of social media.
In a world where politics and geopolitics have become tedious games played by old men in stuffy rooms, it is refreshing to see vibrant and youthful voices echoing through the digital corridors of Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Your expertly crafted tweets, poignant Instagram stories, and captivating TikTok videos have undoubtedly moved the needle in international diplomacy more than decades of negotiations ever could.
It is undeniable that your influence in shaping public opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is profound. Your ability to distill complex geopolitical issues into pithy hashtags and shareable memes is nothing short of revolutionary. After all, why waste time understanding the historical intricacies of a centuries-old conflict when one can simply scroll through a feed and be enlightened in mere seconds?
The power of the hashtag is truly a marvel of modern advocacy. #FreePalestine, #EndTheOccupation, and my personal favorite, #ZionismIsRacism — these slogans resonate deeply, cutting through the noise of rational discourse like a knife through butter.
In your quest for way overdue “justice,” the meticulous selection of emotionally charged images is particularly commendable. The haunting photographs of destruction and despair that you post are not just pictures; they are weapons of mass persuasion. Who needs context or backstory when the raw emotion of a child’s tear-streaked face can convey all the necessary information?
Your ability to evoke outrage and sympathy in a single frame is a testament to your unparalleled understanding of human psychology, more specifically gaslighting and gullibility. It is almost as if you have a Ph.D in emotional manipulation — oh wait, sorry, I meant marketing.
Your dedication to highlighting the Palestinian plight while conveniently ignoring any complexities or counter-narratives is a masterclass in selective advocacy. The world is a confusing place filled with shades of grey, but you, dear influencers, have the remarkable gift of seeing things in black and white.
Your unwavering commitment to presenting a one-sided story is a beacon of clarity in a world muddled by nuance. The skillful omission of any mention of rockets fired from Gaza, the role of the genocidal, antisemitic terror group Hamas, or the internal political strife within the Palestinian Territories ensures that your audience remains blissfully ignorant of any inconvenient truths. Why bother with balance when moral absolutism is so much more satisfying?
Moreover, your ability to galvanize support through the sheer power of celebrity endorsement is nothing short of genius. When pop stars, actors, and athletes join the cause, their vast expertise in Middle Eastern affairs lends unparalleled credibility to the movement.
Their heartfelt declarations, often written by their publicists, resonate with millions of fans who now feel well-versed in the intricacies of the conflict. The seamless blending of entertainment and activism has created a new genre of informed discourse that is both intellectually enriching and delightfully entertaining.
Your relentless pursuit of justice on social media has also given rise to a new breed of digital warriors, ready to engage in the most spirited debates in comment sections across the internet. These keyboard activists, armed with your carefully curated talking points, bravely confront anyone who dares to offer a differing perspective.
What’s more, their valiant efforts in shutting down dissenting voices and ensuring an echo chamber of uniformity are truly inspiring. Free speech is overrated when it stands in the way of justice, am I right?
The ingenious use of cancel culture as a tool for social change is another stroke of brilliance. By calling out and shaming those who hold opposing views, you have successfully created a culture of fear and conformity. The threat of being labeled a Zionist, an “apartheid” supporter, or worse, has effectively silenced many who might have otherwise engaged in meaningful dialogue.
The art of vilification has never been so deftly executed, ensuring that only the self-righteous and the like-minded are welcome to participate in discourse.
Of course, your unyielding dedication to the cause extends beyond mere advocacy; it is a lifestyle. Your ability to seamlessly blend activism with personal brand-building is an inspiration to all aspiring influencers. Whether it is donning a keffiyeh for a stylish Instagram post or incorporating Palestinian flags into your aesthetic, you have managed to make the struggle fashionable. Who would have ever thought that being “pro-Palestinian” has become not just a fairy-tale cause — but also a fashion statement!
The commodification of conflict has never looked so chic. Your followers, eager to emulate your virtue, can now purchase a myriad of merchandise, from “Free Palestine” t-shirts to trendy bracelets, ensuring that their support is both visible and monetizable.
The symbiotic relationship between virtue-signaling and brand growth is a testament to your business acumen. Each impassioned post, each heart-wrenching story not only advances the cause but also boosts your engagement metrics. The confluence of altruism and self-interest has created a new paradigm of social media activism where doing good and doing well are not mutually exclusive. The more followers you gain, the louder your voice, and the more lucrative your sponsorship deals — the epitome of a win-win situation.
And let us not forget the crucial role of performative solidarity in this grand endeavor. Your participation in marches, protests, and viral challenges, often documented in overly edited videos, serves as a powerful reminder of your unwavering commitment to the cause. The careful choreography of these public displays of support, complete with the requisite hashtags and geotags, ensures maximum visibility and impact. Your ability to turn advocacy into a spectacle is nothing short of revolutionary.
In conclusion, your contributions to the discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are nothing short of groundbreaking. Your mastery of the digital medium, your ability to distill complex issues into digestible content, and your unwavering commitment to a singular narrative have reshaped the landscape of modern activism.
You have proven that one does not need to be a scholar, a diplomat, or even particularly well-informed to effect change — one simply needs a smartphone, a flair for drama, and an unshakeable belief in one’s own moral superiority.
After all, who needs books, documentaries, historians, and first-person testimonies when you have Joe Rogen, Bella and Gigi Hadid, Ramy Youssef, Janna Jihad, Billie Eilish, Ahmed Eldin, and countless others posting from the beautiful confines of Beverly Hills (or the like)?
As you continue to navigate the treacherous waters of social media advocacy, remember that with great influence comes great responsibility. Or, you know, just keep doing what you are doing.
After all, who needs responsibility when you have virality?
With sincerest admiration,
Joshua Hoffman
P.S. Just a thought, take it or leave it — Consider getting off social media and heading over to Gaza and the West Bank if you really care about the Palestinians. It seems that the so-called genocide, ethnic cleansing, starvation, forced displacement, and other (libelous) “war crimes” could use more folks like you on the ground.
Maybe it is just me, but social media, despite its superpowers, seems to have its limits. Perhaps your “influence” could go a long way with a visit or two to the Palestinian Territories, as well.
Beautifully written, sadly it will go over their empty heads if they ever read it. Your last two paragraphs were short and to the point. A 6 month vacation in Gaza is exactly what they need.
I personally think that anyone who waves a Palestinian flag rather than the flag of their own country should move to Gaza and experience firsthand what they are extolling. If you prefer somebody else's country to your own, then why stay where you are? Put your money where your mouth is. Especially young people who don't yet know what real life is all about. It's time to find out for yourselves!