Why Jews are happy that TikTok could soon be a thing of the past in USA

A federal appeals court delivered a significant ruling on Friday that could spell the end of TikTok's operations in the United States, upholding legislation that requires Chinese parent company ByteDance to either sell the platform or cease U.S. operations by January 19, 2025.

The legislation would impose substantial financial penalties on app stores that continue offering TikTok after the deadline unless ByteDance divests. While existing installations would remain functional initially, they would likely deteriorate without ongoing updates.

TikTok plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court. "This ban would silence over 170 million American voices," said company spokesperson Michael Hughes, citing the Court's history of protecting First Amendment rights.

For Jewish organizations, the ruling carries additional significance.

The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) reports that antisemitic content on TikTok has surged by 912% since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Their research indicates that frequent TikTok users are significantly more likely to express antisemitic or anti-Israel views compared to users of other platforms.

"While primarily addressing national security concerns, this law could help curb the platform's role in spreading antisemitism globally since October 7," the JFNA noted in their response to the ruling.

Several possibilities remain that could avert the ban. TikTok might secure a temporary stay during its Supreme Court appeal. President Biden could exercise his authority to grant a 90-day extension, though he has not suggested he would do so. The incoming Trump administration, despite its previous stance against the platform, might also take action after assuming office.