Fox News ‘Antisemitism Exposed’ Newsletter: Greta’s anti-Israel stunt goes awry

| Published June 13, 2025

In its latest “Antisemitism Exposed” edition, Fox News spotlighted a growing controversy surrounding the slogan “from the river to the sea”, currently under review by Facebook’s independent Oversight Board to determine if it should be classified as hate speech.

Allegations of Incitement
Middle East expert Jenna Bloom told Fox Business the slogan is “inextricably linked to a violent campaign to get rid of Israel,” citing its frequent use in anti-Israel rallies. Facebook is actively evaluating whether the phrase incites or legitimizes violence against Israel or Jewish people.

Campus Protests and Free Speech Debate
Across U.S. college campuses, anti-Israel demonstrations have continued to escalate, leading to heightened security and arrests at several commencement ceremonies. Republican Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D‑NY), affiliated with the progressive “Squad,” recently defended use of the slogan, asserting it does not equate to hate speech—a stance that has stirred public backlash.

Wider Context of Antisemitism
Fox News also reported that UN data on Gaza casualties has been revised—showing nearly 50 % fewer women and children killed than earlier figures claimed—though it notes these figures remain contested amid ongoing tensions.

Why This Matters

• Social Media Accountability: Facebook’s review highlights the difficult line between protecting free expression and curbing harmful rhetoric.

• Campus Free Speech Crisis: Increased protests and interruptions at universities continue to spotlight tensions around academic freedom and student safety.

• Legislative Repercussions: Support for the slogan among lawmakers sparks debate about ideological boundaries and the limits of protest rhetoric.

What’s Next

• Facebook Decision Imminent: The Oversight Board’s conclusion could reshape policies across major social media platforms.

• Potential Perils for Advocates: Depending on the ruling, individuals and institutions using the phrase may face scrutiny, content moderation, or coercion.

• Continued Campus Turmoil: With growing polarization, universities may tighten campus policies or experience heightened demonstrations.

Advantages:

1. Public Awareness of Antisemitism:
   The article shines a light on how antisemitic slogans and sentiments are spreading, helping educate the public and policymakers.

2. Pressure on Social Media Accountability:
   Facebook’s involvement and the Oversight Board’s review indicate that major platforms are being held to account for moderating potentially harmful language.

3. Defending Free Speech:
   The article represents different perspectives, including lawmakers who defend controversial slogans as political expression, opening up debate on the boundaries of free speech.

4. Fact Correction on Casualty Figures:
   Highlighting the UN’s revision of Gaza casualty data helps correct the public record and balance narrative framing.

Disadvantages:

1. Potential Polarization:
   The framing could deepen divides, particularly on campuses and among political groups, as each side sees the narrative as either just or inflammatory.

2. Risk of Oversimplification:
   Complex geopolitical issues may be reduced to slogans or binary takes, losing nuance and context that’s vital to understanding both sides.

3. Social Media Censorship Concerns:
   Critics may view the Oversight Board’s review as a slippery slope toward stifling legitimate political speech under the guise of hate speech control.

4. Incitement Misinterpretation:
   There’s a risk that slogans used in solidarity with Palestinians might be interpreted solely as antisemitic, which could silence certain activist voices or communities.

Conclusion:

The Fox News article underscores the complexity of balancing free speech, public safety, and the fight against antisemitism in today’s politically charged climate. While it highlights necessary scrutiny of potentially harmful slogans and promotes accountability for major platforms like Facebook, it also reveals the dangers of oversimplifying deeply rooted geopolitical tensions. As public institutions, lawmakers, and tech companies navigate this sensitive landscape, the ongoing debate reflects a broader struggle to define the boundaries between advocacy and incitement.

SOURCE: FOX NEWS – Fox News ‘Antisemitism Exposed’ Newsletter: Greta’s anti-Israel stunt goes awry