'Doing this bc of the backlash': Internet divided as Selena Gomez likes and comments on Sophia Roe’s statement about solidarity with Palestine
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Global pop superstar Selena Gomez has sparked intense debate online this week after liking and commenting 'Amen' on a recent Instagram post by celebrity chef Sophia Roe expressing support for Palestine.
Roe’s emotional post condemned the ongoing conflict and loss of Palestinian life, declaring “when thousands of people are being murdered every single day for just existing, sharing what recipe I’m working on...seems absolutely ridiculous.” She went on to advocate for 'liberation and safety' and 'equitable freedom' for Palestinians to not just survive but also 'prosper and blossom'.
Gomez’s simple one-word comment of support quickly went viral, dividing the Internet, with some praising her speaking out while others accuse her of insincerity.
Selena Gomez liked and commented under Sophia Roe’s recent statement showing solidarity with Palestine. pic.twitter.com/cUeoA7C6CQ
— Pop Base (@PopBase) December 31, 2023
Internet reacts to Selena Gomez's solidarity with Palestine with mixed opinions
Gomez's recent demonstration of solidarity with Palestine stirred a spectrum of reactions across the internet. Among the responses, some sharply criticized Gomez's gesture, with one X (formerly Twitter) user commenting, "only doing this bc of the backlash," while another dismissed her as "so fake".
A contrasting view emerged as well, with a user highlighting, "That is great, she is showing solidarity with Palestine." Additionally, another commenter remarked, "Very nice, Selena."
That is great, she is showing solidarity with Palestine.
— Tilawat Shah (@shah660222) December 31, 2023
Amidst these perspectives, skepticism arose, as one user doubted Gomez's engagement, stating, "I know she didn't even read that," while another dismissed claims about her being a Zionist, commenting, "See? she’s not a Zionist y’all are weird."
Selena Gomez previously took more neutral stance on Israel-Palestine conflict
The polarizing reaction stems from Gomez’s shift in position from November of 2023, when she attracted scrutiny for taking a relatively neutral stance amid the flare up of violence between Israel and Palestine, reported by Marca.
In an Instagram Story post at the time condemning the loss of civilian life, the mega-star acknowledged that “a post won’t” be enough to solve the complex geopolitical conflict. This led some to accuse her of being complicit in injustice by not leveraging her global platform more forcefully.
Gomez remained publicly quiet on the divisive issue in subsequent months, until now unexpectedly surfacing to voice support for Roe’s pro-Palestine message.
Selena Gomez attended Ramy Youssef's charity event raising funds for Gaza
While subtle, Gomez’s supportive comment indicates a pivot towards a more sympathetic position regarding the plight of Palestinians after months of silence.
This follows the singer’s appearance in December of 2023 at a stand-up comedy show by Ramy Youssef, with all proceeds donated to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza residents via the nonprofit ANERA. Gomez was photographed attending the event alongside her friend Taylor Swift and other celebrities like Cara Delevingne and Zoe Kravitz, as per Middle East Eye.
ANERA, founded post the 1967 War, concentrates on educational programs and aiding Palestinian refugees, directing resources toward schools and training for educators.
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
