Gaza journalist Bisan Owda’s TikTok account returned following public demand.
In a surprising twist, award-winning Palestinian journalist Bisan Owda has successfully regained access to her TikTok account, boasting 1.4 million followers, after its abrupt removal. This incident highlights the critical role of social media in amplifying voices from conflict zones and reflects how international attention and advocacy can influence platforms to uphold journalistic integrity in tumultuous times.
Award-winning Palestinian journalist Bisan Owda has successfully regained access to her TikTok account, one day following its unexpected removal. Owda, who spoke to ZezapTV, believes that the resurgence of her account can be attributed to heightened international media scrutiny and pressures from various non-governmental organizations advocating for her rights. Although she now faces challenges in being discovered, as her followers must search her full username to access her content, she remains undeterred.
On Thursday, Owda confirmed her account’s reinstatement but reported that many of her previous video posts were now classified as “ineligible for recommendation” by the platform. As of Friday, her TikTok account was visible, maintaining its 1.4 million followers, though no new content has appeared since September 2025. Owda gained significant recognition for her unwavering resolve to share daily updates and video diaries from Gaza, often starting with the phrase, “It’s Bisan from Gaza – and I’m still alive,” during a time of intense conflict in the region.
Her impactful reporting has earned her prestigious accolades, including Emmy, Peabody, and Edward R. Murrow awards, reflecting her commitment to journalistic excellence in challenging circumstances. Furthermore, in a notable moment, she alerted her followers to the removal of her account when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his interest in potentially acquiring TikTok, hinting at its strategic importance in reshaping the narrative surrounding the ongoing situation in Gaza.
Despite a temporary ceasefire in the region, the threat remains as ongoing Israeli military actions continue to affect Palestinian lives. Tragically, last week’s strikes resulted in the deaths of three Palestinian journalists within the territory. Since October 2023, the Committee to Protect Journalists has documented the alarming toll on local media, with at least 207 Palestinian journalists and media workers killed, predominantly at the hands of Israeli forces.
Owda’s case unfolds amid rising tensions regarding media access in Gaza, compounded by delays from Israeli courts concerning the permissions for foreign journalists to report independently of military oversight. ZezapTV reached out to TikTok for comments on the incident, yet a spokesperson stated that the company refrains from discussing specific accounts.
According to a representative from TikTok, Owda’s account was temporarily restricted in September due to concerns about potential impersonation risks. However, following a thorough review process, her account was duly reinstated and is now functioning normally. Concurrently, TikTok announced the completion of a significant deal to create a distinct version of its platform in the United States, managed by investment firms, many of which have ties to notable political figures, including former President Donald Trump.
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