Navigating Identity and Influence: A Deep Dive with Nas Daily’s Nuseir Yassin

Nuseir Yassin on Shifting Perspectives and Building Bridges. The Digital Creator Shares His Journey from Northern Israel to Global Impact, Advocating for Peace and Understanding

In a thought-provoking interview on Unholy, Nuseir Yassin, the digital creator behind “Nas Daily”, discussed the complexities of his identity, the challenges of navigating the digital landscape, and his vision for peace in the Middle East. With over 70 million followers and billions of video views, Yassin’s influence is undeniable. His journey from a small town in Israel to becoming one of the world’s most recognized digital creators is not just about content creation—it’s about redefining identity and fostering understanding in a region fraught with conflict.

What was it like growing up as a Palestinian in Israel?

״My childhood was, in many ways, shameful. I spent 20 years in Israel without having a single Jewish friend. My parents have lived there for 65 years and have never been invited to a Shabbat dinner. This segregation is ridiculous and fosters a sense of inferiority. If I could change one thing in Israel, it would be to integrate schools and make community service or military service mandatory for everyone. These changes could help bridge the divide between Arabs and Jews in Israel.״

You recently shifted from identifying as a Palestinian-Israeli to an Israeli-Palestinian. What prompted this change?

״This shift might seem trivial to some, but it caused a significant stir. For a long time, 20% of Israel’s population, including myself, didn’t feel fully connected to Israel. But after October 7th, when Israel was attacked, many of us, including my family, realized that we only have one country, and that’s Israel. It made me rethink my identity—why should I identify as Palestinian first when my primary goal is to improve Israel from within? This realization led to the change.״

What kind of reactions did you receive after making this change?

״The responses varied greatly. People in the new Middle East, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, were supportive. They recognize Israel’s existence and are ready to move forward. However, the old Middle East, places like Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, which are still entrenched in the idea that Israel should not exist, reacted negatively. I lost a part of that old Middle East, but I gained new supporters who are ready for peace and cooperation.״

You’ve built a massive following across various platforms. How do you explain your success?

״I’m just a guy from northern Israel who decided to create content that matters. I wanted to do something important, so I started making videos about topics that are life and death. I’m not interested in selling luxury items—I’m interested in making a difference. That’s why I focus on content that educates and brings people together. My videos resonate with a wide audience because they are both educational and engaging, appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds.״

You’ve mentioned that your stance on Israel has cost you financially. Can you elaborate?

״Yes, taking a stand has definitely had financial repercussions. We’ve lost about $1-2 million in deals because of my statements. But that’s okay because I believe in standing up for what I believe in. For every deal I lost, I gained another with partners who share my values. I’ve seen how quickly attitudes can change. For example, after the Abraham Accords, the UAE went from being anti-Israel to embracing Israel. I believe this change will happen in other countries too.״

There’s been a lot of discussion about the bias on platforms like TikTok. What’s your take?

״Initially, I didn’t believe the argument that TikTok is biased. But after seeing research comparing the discussion of certain topics like Kashmir across different platforms, I realized there’s a significant difference. On TikTok, certain issues like Israel-Palestine are disproportionately represented, which suggests there is some manipulation. While I love TikTok as a platform, I think we’re heading towards a fragmented internet where each country has its own version, which will further complicate the situation.״

Nuseir Yassin’s insights offer a unique perspective on identity, digital influence, and the future of the Middle East. His journey from a small town in Israel to the global stage reflects his commitment to making a difference. Despite the challenges and backlash, Yassin remains optimistic, driven by a belief that economic necessity and the desire for peace will eventually lead to a more stable and cooperative Middle East. His work continues to push boundaries, fostering dialogue and understanding in a region that desperately needs it.

The quotes were edited for clarity,