Outrage erupts online after Palestinian journalist Motaz Azaiza linked to British citizenship ad
A U.S.-based company that provides citizenship and residence services in the Middle East created the advertisement, which debuted in December 2024 and reappeared in March 2025. Fans reacted sharply to Azaiza's participation in the campaign, with many expressing dissatisfaction and rage at what they saw as a betrayal of his public persona as an advocate for Gaza.
Backlash on Social Media
Many people expressed their annoyance on social media sites like Facebook, raising concerns over Azaiza's choice at a time when Israel is still waging war on Gaza. He was accused by his detractors of abandoning the Palestinian cause and advocating for the concept of using foreign citizenship to flee Gaza.
Encouragement Voices Demand Comprehension
Some people defended Azaiza in spite of the criticism, speculating that his choice could have been influenced by personal circumstances. They said that many Palestinians in the diaspora maintain their commitment to their country despite holding other passports, arguing that obtaining a second citizenship does not mean renunciating one's identity or principles.
والله المصريين هم فقط اللي بيزعلوا علي الدول اللي بيضيعونها شعبها دا الصحفي المغوار معتز العزايزة كان بيشتم ان مصر بتعلي اسلاك شائكة ف فيديو ولقطته من مراية العربية الجانبية ومسحت بكرامته الارض pic.twitter.com/qkGWphBbzs — 🇪🇬💕🎀ᑎε3maτ🎀💕🇪🇬 (@ne3mat3awad) March 23, 2025
An Account from the Front Lines
In recent years, Motaz Azaiza has become well-known for his firsthand reporting of the Israeli invasion of Gaza. His efforts raised awareness of the difficulties faced by besieged Palestinians on a global scale. But because of the current issue, he is now at the heart of a contentious discussion over resistance, identity, and the psychological effects of ongoing warfare.
Azaiza has yet to provide a public remark on the issue, despite the fact that responses are still coming in.
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