Israeli Couple's Engagement Filmed by Palestinian Creator Sparks Viral Clash in Italy

Shortly after their engagement in the Dolomites, Israeli couple Maor Tzabari and her partner asked a passerby to photograph them. The man, a content creator identifying as Palestinian and known online as Ahmad or "Azati," initially appeared enthusiastic but changed his demeanor upon realizing they were Israeli. He later posted the encounter on TikTok, labeling the couple as "my oppressors" and ending with "Allah, forgive me."

Maor recounted to C14 that she first noticed his necklace shaped like the map of Israel and assumed he was Israeli, but he corrected her, saying he was Palestinian. The mood shifted instantly, and although he took a few photos, Maor felt unwelcome and decided to leave. The photos were poor quality and unused. A month later, a soldier who knows Maor recognized her in the viral video, which sparked harsh online reactions. Many commenters expressed sympathy for Maor and shared negative experiences with Israelis, reflecting deep-seated animosities.

Despite the viral backlash, Maor and her partner remain positive, with Maor noting that the exposure helped her new business. She emphasized that they openly identified as Israeli throughout their travels and responded politely to the man’s declaration of being Palestinian. Maor stated, "We won’t hide our identity abroad. When there is a person in front of you, first be a human being."