On Thursday, July 18th, 2026, Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz and former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow announced a renewed international effort to combat online child exploitation. The initiative brings together government officials, law enforcement leaders, and anti-human trafficking advocates, including the Tim Tebow Foundation, to enhance cooperation against predators operating across borders.

Speaking exclusively to Fox News Digital following the event, Tebow warned American parents that the threat of child exploitation is not distant but "happening in their backyard." He highlighted the prevalence of online predators seeking vulnerabilities to exploit, lure, groom, and sextort children.

Waltz emphasized that "The United States is leading the charge to combat child exploitation in partnership with civil society groups like the Tim Tebow Foundation." He noted that a significant challenge in the global fight is that many countries lack the legal tools and investigative resources necessary to pursue child exploitation cases effectively.

Tebow added that many regions are underfunded and under-equipped, requiring training and a better understanding of online dynamics to improve victim identification. Both stressed the critical need for a global response, as child exploitation criminals operate across borders.

The event also coincided with reports that New Mexico is seeking a massive penalty from Meta after a jury found the tech giant liable for endangering children.

Notable Quotes

  • "It's happening in their backyard," Tebow told Fox News Digital.
  • "The United States is leading the charge to combat child exploitation in partnership with civil society groups like the Tim Tebow Foundation," Waltz said.
  • "Child exploitation criminals operate across borders, so a global response is critical. We need to work together to protect our children from predators."
  • "If it's unprotected, it's similar to dropping them off at a playground knowing that pedophiles are circling that playground," Tebow remarked.
  • "I really believe it's one of the worst evils in the world," Tebow stated.

Sources