NEW YORK: Social media erupted in controversy as actor and singer Selena Gomez faced sharp criticism for her response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, prompting her to threaten to ‘delete’ her Instagram account after the backlash.
On October 31, Gomez shared a story on Instagram addressing her hiatus from social media, expressing her anguish over the violence and advocating for peace. However, her statement failed to satisfy many, considering her significant influence as the most followed woman on Instagram with 430 million followers and her role as a UNICEF ambassador since 2009.
Selena Gomez shares statement on Israel and Palestine:
“I'm sorry if my words will never be enough for everyone or a hashtag. I just can't stand by innocent people getting hurt. That's what makes me sick. I wish I could change the world. But a post won't.” pic.twitter.com/vH8rojpVx9
— Pop Base (@PopBase) October 31, 2023
Critics pointed out her reluctance to use her platform to actively advocate for peace and questioned her silence in the face of the escalating violence in Gaza, where thousands of innocent Palestinians have lost their lives, and essential infrastructure like hospitals and schools have been targeted and destroyed.
selena gomez is being so stupid right now. she is downplaying her massive following and being hypocritical. if a post can’t help change the world why call yourself a philanthropist?? why post about mental health, blm, womens rights, american elections etc etc pic.twitter.com/iw61aOxAIf
— jav (@parkwoodfilms) October 31, 2023
Selena Gomez Threatens to Delete Instagram Account
After receiving widespread backlash, Gomez posted another story announcing her departure from Instagram, stating that she was ‘done’ and no longer supported the ongoing situation. Despite her threat to delete her account, Gomez did not follow through, leading to accusations of inconsistency and attention-seeking behavior.
Many social media users expressed frustration, emphasizing the gravity of the situation in Gaza and highlighting Gomez’s lack of response compared to other influential figures, such as Angelina Jolie, who actively addressed the crisis.
Selena Gomez has one of the biggest followings on Instagram. For her to make this genocide about herself and not bring awareness to the oppression of Palestine AND then posting about the privilege of looking away says all we need to know about which side she is choosing. https://t.co/BIqB80GH7F
— Kimmy Eat World 🇵🇸 (@kimmmyparsons) November 3, 2023
"I wish I could change the world. But a post wont."
Shame on you Selena Gomez. You have 430 million followers yet people with less followers be doing so much more.
Our voices are being heard. You are just ignorant.
— Sarah Mustafa (@srhmstfa_) October 31, 2023
https://twitter.com/glizzymitsi/status/1719257635600425309
Wallahi these Gen Z kids are built differently…they bullied Selena Gomez off the internet after she liked an Amy Schumer pro genocide post 😅 🇵🇸
— الكسندرا ميراي🇵🇸 (@LexiAlex) November 3, 2023
Gomez’s handling of the situation sparked debates about her responsibility as a public figure and the importance of using her platform to raise awareness and promote peace. The incident has raised questions about celebrities’ roles in global crises and the impact of their actions or inactions on public opinion and international discourse.
