Dior replaces Palestinian Bella Hadid with Israeli model as brand ambassador
High-end Parisian brand Dior has replaced Palestinian-American model Bella Hadid with Israeli model Mai Tager in their latest campaign.
Bella Hadid, who had been the face of Dior makeup and the brand’s first ambassador with Palestinian roots since 2016, found herself at the center of controversy after speaking out against the tragic events taking place in Gaza.
Even in the face of potential career repercussions, Bella Hadid remained steadfast in her support for Palestine, stating, “But I can not be silenced any longer. Fear is not an option. The people and children of Palestine, especially in Gaza, cannot afford our silence. We are not brave – they are.”
Referencing the aftermath of airstrikes in Gaza, Hadid expressed, “My heart is bleeding with pain from the trauma I am seeing unfold, as well as the generational trauma of my Palestinian blood.”
“I’ve been sent hundreds of death threats daily, my phone number has been leaked, and my family has felt to be in danger,” Hadid wrote.
Her outspoken stance led to a wave of career ending threats, resulting in Dior replacing the Palestinian model.
The decision to replace Bella Hadid with Israeli model Mai Tager highlights Dior’s support for Israel, a stance consistent with France’s open support for the nation.
A local Israeli newspaper celebrated this shift, noting, “While many companies around the world refrain from openly supporting Israel, international brand Dior has chosen Israeli model May Tager to lead their campaign, a role previously held by Bella Hadid, who has long been an advocate for the Palestinian cause and a vocal critic of Israel.”
