Technology

YouTube Erased More Than 700 Videos Documenting Israeli Human Rights Violations

Source

Hacker News

Published

Nov 5, 2025

TL;DR

AI Generated

YouTube removed over 700 videos documenting Israeli human rights violations from three Palestinian human rights groups' channels, following U.S. government sanctions against the groups. The move was criticized as complying with the Trump administration's agenda to stifle evidence of war crimes. The deleted videos included documentation of alleged Israeli violations of international law in Gaza and the West Bank. The affected groups expressed concern that videos hosted on other U.S.-based platforms could also be targeted for deletion. The erasure of these videos was seen as a setback for human rights and freedom of expression.

Read Full Article

Stealth Signals Are Bypassing Iran’s Internet Blackout

Hidden files embedded in satellite TV broadcasts are allowing Iranians to bypass the country's internet blackout, ensuring the flow of information. These "stealth signals" are helping citizens access restricted content and communicate with the outside world despite the government's efforts to control internet access. By leveraging satellite technology, individuals in Iran are able to stay connected and informed, highlighting the resilience of communication networks in the face of censorship.

IEEE Spectrum•

2 weeks ago

Iran's forced nationwide internet blackout becomes second-longest on record as it passes 1,000 hours offline — possessing Starlink terminals punishable by death, country using 'military-grade jamming' against service

Iran's nationwide internet blackout has surpassed 1,000 hours, making it one of the longest on record. The blackout, which began on February 28, is being enforced with military-grade jamming and severe penalties for possessing Starlink terminals, including potential execution. Iran has also threatened attacks on infrastructure owned by major tech companies. The blackout is causing significant economic and social disruptions, with human rights organizations condemning it as a violation of fundamental rights. Despite some limited internet traffic, the blackout remains in effect, impacting access to essential information during military actions.

Tom's Hardware•

2 weeks ago

YouTube launches AI avatars for Shorts creators that look and sound like you

YouTube has introduced AI avatars for Shorts creators, allowing them to create photorealistic digital versions of themselves to use in short video clips. The tool aims to give creators more control over their digital identity and streamline content creation by using avatars instead of filming themselves repeatedly. Setting up an avatar involves capturing a live selfie and voice recording, with the system generating a realistic digital version for users to use in their Shorts. Creators can easily create content by typing prompts and letting the AI generate clips, with the option to add their avatar to existing Shorts. Users have full control over their avatars, including the ability to delete them at any time, and YouTube will automatically delete unused avatars after three years.

TweakTown•

3 weeks ago

MIT Technology Review

The Download: the US digital rights crackdown, and AI companionship

The article discusses the US digital rights crackdown, highlighting the ban on five individuals by the Trump administration, including Josephine Ballon, a director of HateAid, a German nonprofit combating online harassment. Additionally, the piece explores the rise of AI companionship, with 72% of US teenagers using AI for companionship, though it can have varying impacts on individuals, especially those with mental health issues. The article also delves into the creation of new emotions like "velvetmist" generated by AI, showcasing the evolving landscape of emotional experiences.

MIT Technology Review•

4 months ago