Jewish Organization Brands Selena Gomez A 'Coward' In Israel-Hamas Controversy

The Jewish organization American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise (AICE) slammed singer and actress Selena Gomez for her stance on the Israel-Hamas war. Mitchell Bard, a representative, accused Gomez of protecting her brand, Rare Beauty, over speaking out for Israel.

In the same statement, Bard praised a founding member of "Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions BDS," Alia Malak. The Palestinian group, however, has praised Gomez for speaking out on injustice and accountability. Rare Beauty has since issued a statement on the ongoing war.

Bard criticized Gomez for her statements on the Israel-Hamas war. As a representative of the Jewish AICE cooperation, he noted to TMZ that she should've stood with Israel and spoken up on the hostages and massacres in the country. Bard also accused the "Good For You" singer of seeking to protect her business, Rare Beauty, above the Israeli lives.

This comes after the brand was slammed for its statement about the war, calling for the protection of Palestinian and Israeli children. He noted that Gomez was giving into the pressure from bullies by siding with Palestinians and "taking the popular position that Palestinians who have been sacrificed by Hamas are the victims."

Bard's statement borders on the claim by some that Hamas uses Palestinians as human shields.

In the same post, Malak praised a member of BDS, a Palestinian organization. However, Malak defended Gomez. They noted to TMZ that she was doing an excellent job by calling for justice and protection of civilians. 

They said, "Selena Gomez is one of many thousands of artists and cultural figures worldwide calling for ceasefire, justice, and accountability, joining Hollywood figures, leading Black scholars and artists, Jewish writers and artists, prominent authors, visual artists, and many others."

Malak added in their statement, "When UN experts and others are warning of an Israeli genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, these artists are on the right side of history. Palestinians call on artists and arts organizations to speak out loudly for a ceasefire, and for an end to oppression, as many had done against apartheid South Africa, to contribute to freedom, justice, and equality."

The criticism of Gomez and her brand followed Rare Beauty's statement concerning the war. The brand noted that the killings of Israeli citizens were inhumane and unacceptable. It also said that the priority was the protection of the lives of "Palestine civilians," given the fatal attacks on the country.

Rare Beauty shared that they'd be donating resources to help victims of the war. The brand also promoted kindness during the tragedy. It added, "There is no situation where attacks on civilians are acceptable. We strongly denounce any & all forms of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. We urge everyone to support humanitarian organizations working tirelessly to provide aid & relief to those in need. Every bit of help can make a difference."

The statement was met with mixed reactions from fans of Gomez and the brand, who accused RB of following pro-Israel Instagram accounts. Some fans also noted their intention to boycott the brand for their neutral stance.

Gomez previously made statements regarding the war, which led her to announce her intention to delete her Instagram account. The "Lose You To Love Me" singer once wrote about the Middle Eastern war, condemning the killings and torture and asking for accountability. 

Gomez wrote of the tragedy, "That's what makes me sick. I wish I could change the world. But a post won't." The post was met with fans and viewers accusing Gomez of not doing all she could to help the victims. They also accused her of making the war about herself.

In response, Gomez posted another Instagram story noting that she didn't "support any of what's going on." She then revealed that she'd be taking a break from the app for a while. Gomez was one of several other celebrities who were slammed for their positions and opinions concerning the war. Other stars like Gal Gadot, Noah Schnapp, and Mia Khalifa were also criticized for their stances.

Gomez also notably joined a long list of Hollywood entertainers who have called for a ceasefire in Gaza.