From Mia Khalifa to Elon Musk: what celebrities think about Gaza-Israel fighting

Celebrities of all stripes have taken to social media platforms to weigh in on the sudden escalation in fighting between Israel and Palestinian groups.

Mia Khalifa, the media personality and former adult film actress, has been making waves for her outspoken views on the issue. As of Monday, she was trending on social media platform 'X' for posts in support of Palestine.

Khalifa also directed criticism at American influencer and businesswoman Kylie Jenner for her pro-Israel posts on Instagram, starting an online debate among followers.

If true journalism exists, the next person to talk to Kylie Jenner will ask for her opinion on geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and not break eye contact until she can string one coherent sentence together since she wants to take a stance to her 400M followers so badly

— Mia K. (@miakhalifa) October 8, 2023

I can’t believe the Zionist apartheid regime is being brought down by guerrilla fighters in fake Gucci shirts - the biopics of these moments better reflect that

— Mia K. (@miakhalifa) October 7, 2023

Mark Ruffalo, known for his role as The Hulk in Marvel's Avengers, shared a message from journalist Nathan Thrall: "It is horrific to see innocent civilians killed and held hostage... We pray for the safety of the innocent people of Gaza who are being bombarded and besieged." This was perceived by some respondents on social media as blaming both sides for the current situation.

Ruffalo has previously criticised Israel's treatment of Palestinians online, and was once forced to retract his comments amid pressure from pro-Israel groups.

I received a note today from @NathanThrall, journalist and author of “A Day In The Life of Abed Salama” that resonated deeply with me. I wanted to share his words as we all watch in horror what is unfolding between the Israeli Government and Hamas today. ⤵️

“It is horrific to…

— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) October 7, 2023

Professional boxer and model Younes Bendjima challenged the equal attribution of blame, saying: "I'd love to but I can't... there's only one side."

Bendjima's posts highlighted Israel's occupation, movement restrictions, discriminatory treatment at checkpoints, and the presence of Israeli snipers. He pointed out the disparity in international backing, referring to the support Israel receives from the US. Bendjima also highlighted the reality of Palestinian children living in terror under the threat of Israeli warplanes.

Former New Zealand rugby star Sonny Bill Williams showed solidarity by posting, "Praying for Gaza!" along with a Palestinian flag. 

US Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad quoted Malcolm X: "If you are not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are oppressed, and loving the people who are doing the oppressing."

Entrepreneur Elon Musk focused on Iran’s position from the conflict. He commented on a post by Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei which appeared to celebrate the attack on Israel.

Khamenei’s official position is clear that the eradication of Israel is the actual goal, not just supporting Palestinians.

That will not happen. All that actually happens, decade after decade, is a never-ending cycle of violence and vengeance.

Stoking the fires of hatred isn’t… https://t.co/ffNuY9AgAC

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 8, 2023

Musk suggested that Khamenei's statement indicated that Iran's ultimate objective is to confront Israel. 

Canadian psychologist and influencer Jordan Peterson, lent Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu his support in a post. "Give 'em hell [Netanyahu]... Enough is enough," Peterson said. Many condemned the tone and implications of the comment.

Give 'em hell@netanyahu

Enough is enough

— Dr Jordan B Peterson (@jordanbpeterson) October 7, 2023

Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who has previously served in the Israeli army, wrote: ''Hamas is holding hostages, controlling bases and settlements in Israel. There have been more than 1,500 injured and heavy fighting is still ongoing. I hear their voices and they are banging on the door. I am with my two little children. Praying for all of those in pain."