The official X account for Ford Motor Company was reportedly compromised on Monday, resulting in the posting of inflammatory messages, including one labeling Israel a “terrorist state.” The posts, which appeared Monday afternoon, also included messages such as “ALL EYES ON GAZA” and “Free Palestine.” They were swiftly deleted, and Ford issued a statement clarifying the situation.
“Ford’s account was briefly compromised, and these posts were neither authorized nor posted by the company,” the automaker stated via X Monday evening. “They do not represent the views of Ford Motor Company. Ford and X are investigating this breach.”
The incident drew criticism, with some users calling Ford’s response inadequate. Rabbi Samuel Stern, co-chair of the Kansas State Holocaust Commemoration, argued the company failed to apologize directly for the posts, questioning whether a stronger statement would have been issued had the unauthorized posts targeted another group.
“Incredibly weak statement,” added Brianna Wu, executive director of the Rebellion PAC. “Denounce antisemitism. Apologize to the Jewish community. Promise consequences for the people responsible.”
Ford, headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, is situated in a city with the largest Arab-American majority in the United States, according to a 2023 report from the University of Michigan. Dearborn’s demographic composition has made it a focal point for discussions on Middle Eastern politics in the U.S.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges companies face in securing their social media accounts and navigating the fallout from hacking incidents that can spark widespread public reaction.
Ford Motor Co. announced earlier this month that it was donating $1 million and a fleet of vehicles to support President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming January inauguration. The donation underscores the automaker’s interest in maintaining a constructive relationship with the incoming administration, whose policies on tariffs and electric vehicles could significantly impact the U.S. automotive industry.
Trump has proposed imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, as well as eliminating the electric vehicle (EV) tax credit that benefits manufacturers like Ford. These measures could present challenges for Detroit carmakers, which are already grappling with the complexities of increasing production and sales of battery-powered vehicles.
Ford CEO Jim Farley recently expressed optimism that the administration would be receptive to the company’s viewpoints. Farley noted Ford’s critical role in the U.S. economy and manufacturing, suggesting the automaker’s perspective would likely weigh heavily in any policy discussions.
