Karim Benzema’s Gaza Statement Sparks Controversy
The recent statement of Karim Benzema regarding the ongoing events in Israel and Gaza has stirred a considerable reaction. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) and seen by 34 million people, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner expressed his support and prayers for the people of Gaza, condemning what he called «unjust bombings that spare neither women nor children».
While this message garnered support from those who share his views, it also raised criticism from those who perceived it as one-sided, with Benzema seemingly overlooking the Israeli and even French victims of the conflict that began nine days ago.
Some, like economist and far-right figure Jean Messiha, were quick to point out that Benzema did not mention victims such as Lola, Samuel Paty, or French and Israeli victims, accusing him of supporting Hamas.
Others, like Mathias Wargon, questioned the relevance of Benzema’s opinion in a complex and tragic situation on both sides of the conflict.
Géraldine Woessner, the editor-in-chief of Le Point, expressed her indignation at Benzema’s selective expression of sympathy, particularly for the Jewish victims of the Hamas attacks on October 7.
Elizabeth Levy, the director of the Causeur magazine, also criticized Benzema for not acknowledging the suffering of the 1400 Israelis affected by the conflict.
The article concludes with former Israeli goalkeeper Dudo Aouté, who used strong language to insult the French striker for his stance on the issue.
