DJ Khaled Faces Backlash for Photo With Israeli Jeweler

DJ Khaled, a prominent American hip-hop producer born to Palestinian parents, is facing intense criticism from pro-Palestinian activists worldwide after being photographed with Avi Hiaeve, a well-known Israeli-American jeweler. The image, showing the two smiling and displaying luxury watches, circulated rapidly on pro-Palestinian social media platforms, sparking a wave of hateful comments. Users posted remarks such as, "Someone tell Khaled that time in hell passes slowly," and "Your people are being destroyed and this is your response." Others called the producer a "disgrace not only to Palestinians but also to Americans with a conscience," with one user creating an AI image depicting Khaled eating while Palestinian children starve.

Khaled's perceived lack of solidarity with his Palestinian heritage has also drawn commentary from within the music industry. Rapper Drake, who has previously expressed support for Palestinians and signed a ceasefire petition, appeared to subtly criticize Khaled on his latest album. In one song, Drake rapped, "Khaled, you know what I'm talking about, your people are still waiting for you to call to free Palestine, but apparently not everything is black and white and red and green."

Despite mounting public pressure and personal attacks, Khaled has maintained his silence on political matters. In a recent encounter, a streamer approached Khaled outside an event, demanding he say "Free Palestine" on camera. Khaled declined to respond directly, offering only a general message of "Peace and love to everyone."