Bella Hadid Speaks Out Regarding Pro-Israel Protests Against Adidas Ads
Know Your Idol – Bella Hadid has spoken out in response to the strong reaction following Adidas’ campaign regarding the Munich Olympics which was accused of being pro-Israel. Through Instagram Stories, he emphasized that he would not star in advertisements related to violence in any form. This is because it goes against his principles which always promote peace.
In the same post, Bella Hadid stated that she did not know that the Adidas advertisement in which she starred was related to the terrible 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy.
“For those of you who don’t know my heart, I want to make sure that you hear directly from me about my latest campaign with adidas. I will never be involved with any work of art or work that is related to a terrible tragedy of any kind,” said Bella.
“Prior to the campaign’s release, I was unaware of any historical connection to the horrific events of 1972. I was shocked, upset and disappointed by the lack of sensitivity involved in this campaign. If I had been told, from the bottom of my heart, I would never have participated, ” he continued.
Gigi Hadid’s younger brother stated that he should also take a role in the Adidas advertisement by asking questions and doing research regarding the story behind it. Therefore, he felt disappointed with all parties involved in the controversial advertisement.
“My team should have known, Adidas should have known, and I should have done more research so that I too would know and understand, and speak out. As I have always done, and will always do, speak out about what I believe is wrong,” he explained .
“While everyone’s intention is to create something positive, and bring people together through art, a lack of collective understanding from all parties undermines the process. I do not believe in hate of any kind, including antisemitism. That will never waver, and I fully support that statement,” he continued.
On the other hand, the 27-year-old model felt hurt that so many people connected Adidas’ campaign about the Munich Massacre at the 1972 Olympics with the liberation of the Palestinian people today. The reason is, the situations of the two are different.
The 1972 Olympics are best remembered for the tragic massacre that occurred just a week after the sporting event began. On September 5 of that year, eight members of the Palestinian militant group Black September took 11 Israeli athletes and coaches hostage, and all the victims were later killed. A German policeman was also killed. Bella then ended her upload with a firm statement revealing that she would continue to provide full support to Palestine, which is her homeland. He also confirmed that he supports world peace.
“I will always support the Palestinian people while continuing to fight for a world free from antisemitism. Antisemitism has no place in the liberation of the Palestinian people. I will always support peace over violence, at any time. Hate has no place here, and I will always fight for not only my people, but everyone around the world,” he said.
Earlier in July, the German brand released a campaign featuring Bella Hadid for the relaunch of the Adidas SL72 sneaker, which was originally launched in 1972, the same year as the Munich Olympics. The supermodel is an outspoken supporter of Palestine, having Palestinian heritage from her father, Anwar Hadid.
Bella’s campaign and role were criticized by several parties on social media, including the American Jewish Committee, which released a statement on July 18, 2024. As USA Today reported, Adidas Originals shared photos showing Bella wearing the shoe collection, which were soon deleted. after controversy. Adidas later released an official statement and apologized for the ad.