Elon Musk Declares 'War' After Somali-American Student's TikTok Comment Sparks Backlash

In a follow-up TikTok video released on January 2, Muhumed addressed the backlash, claiming her words were "badly misinterpreted and misheard" and taken out of context from a longer livestream. She explained that the comment was intended to promote body positivity and kindness toward aging, not to threaten harm.

"If you told me a week ago that my name and Elon Musk’s name were being voiced in the same breath, I wouldn’t believe you," she said, expressing fear for her future amid the controversy.

Muhumed, a KIPP Kansas City alum and reported refugee, has faced online harassment, including doxxing of her personal information and threats against her safety.

Prominent figures have weighed in. Utah Senator Mike Lee called for Muhumed's immediate deportation if she is not a U.S. citizen, stating, "Deport her immediately. She shouldn't be here."

Conservative outlets like The Western Journal, Townhall, and The Gateway Pundit have highlighted the incident, framing it as part of broader concerns over immigration and online threats. Critics on the left have accused Musk and his supporters of provoking victimhood narratives.

Some Somali speakers have defended Muhumed, arguing that the Somali portions of the video provide context, translating her words as commentary on Musk's age and wealth rather than a literal threat. However, detractors point out that the English phrase was deliberate and unambiguous.

UMKC has not issued a public statement on the matter, though online petitions demand an investigation into Muhumed's conduct.