Dua Lipa, the globally renowned pop star, has recently found herself at the center of a political storm. Known for her vocal stance on various social issues, Lipa has been particularly outspoken about the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In a recent interview, she reiterated her position, describing the situation as an “Israeli genocide.” Despite the backlash, Lipa remains steadfast in her beliefs.
Born in England to Kosovo-Albanian parents, Lipa’s background has significantly influenced her activism. She explained that her heritage naturally inclines her to speak out on political matters. “My very existence is somewhat political,” she told Radio Times, emphasizing that her advocacy is deeply personal and rooted in her identity.
Lipa’s activism has not been without controversy. She recently faced criticism after being mentioned in an Israeli rap song that called for violence against public figures supporting Palestinian rights. Despite this, Lipa continues to use her platform to advocate for what she believes is right. She shared a graphic image from Artists4Ceasefire on Instagram, urging her 88 million followers to stand in solidarity with Gaza. In her post, she condemned the violence against children and criticized what she termed “Israeli genocide.”
In her interview with Radio Times, Lipa acknowledged the backlash her statements often receive. However, she views her activism as necessary for larger causes. “This is about something that is way bigger than me,” she explained, adding that she is willing to face criticism for the greater good.
Lipa’s political engagement extends beyond social media. She has expressed her support for the Labour Party in the UK and plans to vote for them in the upcoming elections. However, she prefers not to publicly endorse or criticize specific party leaders, citing her belief that politicians often disappoint. “I’ve always supported Labour, but I don’t think I’ll be publicly going for or against anyone because politicians overall just have a way of letting you down,” she said.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with more than 36,000 Palestinians killed and over 83,000 injured. The violence escalated following a Hamas attack on Southern Israel on October 7, 2023. In response, hundreds of liberal Jewish American activists staged sit-ins in Capitol Hill offices, demanding a ceasefire. These protests reflect the growing discontent among the party’s left over the Biden administration’s response to the conflict.
President Joe Biden has faced criticism for his unwavering support for Israel. During a recent news conference, Biden expressed skepticism about the Palestinian death toll provided by the Gaza health ministry. His comments were met with outrage from progressive groups, who accused him of enabling violence against Palestinians. The Council on American-Islamic Relations described Biden’s remarks as “shocking and dehumanizing.”
The discontent within the Democratic Party is palpable. A Gallup poll released on Thursday showed a significant drop in Biden’s approval rating among Democrats, fueled by dismay over his support for Israel. Meanwhile, a poll by Data for Progress found that 66% of likely US voters believe the US should call for a ceasefire.
Despite the growing pressure, the White House has firmly rejected calls for a ceasefire. White House spokesperson John Kirby argued that a ceasefire at this stage “only benefits Hamas.” Biden himself stated that discussions about a ceasefire could only begin after the release of hostages.
In Congress, 18 House Democrats have joined a resolution calling for an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire. Jewish and Muslim staffers on Capitol Hill have also written an anonymous open letter urging congressional leaders to act swiftly. Progressive senators, including Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, have called for a “humanitarian pause” to allow aid into Gaza.
The conflict has also sparked divisions within the left. Some of Sanders’ most loyal followers have expressed disappointment over his resistance to back a ceasefire. The debate over Israel has become emotionally charged, with many progressives threatening to withhold support for Biden in the 2024 presidential election.
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian American in Congress, has accused Biden of abetting the deadly war. “We will remember where you stood,” she wrote in a social media post tagging the president.
As the conflict continues, demands for an immediate ceasefire have grown louder. Progressive groups have urged the Biden administration to prevent a ground invasion that would result in more civilian casualties and potentially drag the US into another endless war.
Looking ahead, progressives argue that the US must dramatically reshape its approach to Israel and Palestine. “If we want to take a consistent policy towards human rights, we cannot always be focused on supporting the rights and security of one side,” said Matt Duss, a former foreign policy adviser to Sanders. “The status quo is clearly unsustainable.”
Dua Lipa’s unwavering stance amid political backlash highlights the complexities and emotional intensity surrounding the Gaza conflict. As she continues to use her platform to advocate for what she believes is right, her actions resonate with many who share her views, even as they provoke strong reactions from others.
