TEL AVIV, ISRAEL – Israel’s national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has criticized supermodel Bella Hadid for her comments regarding his recent statements about Palestinians in the West Bank.
Ben-Gvir argued in a televised interview that his right to freedom of movement as a Jewish settler in the West Bank is more important than the same right for Palestinians. He stated, “My right, the right of my wife and my children to move around Judea and Samaria, is more important than freedom of movement for the Arabs.”
Bella Hadid, whose father is Palestinian, shared Ben-Gvir’s interview on Instagram and criticized his stance, saying that no one’s life should be considered more valuable than another’s based on ethnicity or culture.
Ben-Gvir responded to Hadid’s post, inviting her to visit Kiryat Arba, a settlement near Hebron, and see the situation for herself. He reiterated his belief that the safety of Jews in Judea and Samaria is more important than the rights of Palestinians who engage in violence against Israelis.
Ben-Gvir has faced backlash for his statements, which some critics view as evidence of an apartheid system in Israel. He has a history of controversial statements and associations, including supporting a terrorist organization and admiring Rabbi Meir Kahane, whose Kach party was branded a terrorist group by the United States.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Ben-Gvir’s comments, arguing that they prioritize the right to life over freedom of movement due to security concerns.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in Israel and the occupied territories, particularly regarding the rights and freedoms of Palestinians and Jewish settlers.