Bill Maher Slams Celebrities Accusing Israel of Genocide

Comedian Bill Maher used his HBO show "Real Time" to criticize celebrities, including rapper Macklemore, for accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Maher argued that such claims fuel rising antisemitism globally, stating, "History shows that for some reason, when it comes to hating Jews, people don't need much of an excuse."

Maher specifically addressed Macklemore's recent performance as a warm-up act for Ed Sheeran in New Jersey, where the rapper repeatedly chanted "Free Palestine" and performed his song "Hind's Hall." Maher characterized Macklemore's statement, "I know enough to know that this is genocide," as representative of "clueless celebrities" who "don't know anything."

"It's not genocide. It's a counterattack in a war," Maher asserted, referencing the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. He also provided a brief historical context for Gaza, noting it was "a small strip of land that wasn't part of original Israel, but they won it in a war that was opened against them, and then gave it back, gave it back as a gesture of peace."

Maher further criticized prominent Democrats for allegedly enforcing strict discipline on the issue and allowing the "genocide" narrative to spread. He concluded his "New Rule" segment by linking these accusations to the global surge in antisemitism, suggesting that believing a genocide is occurring grants people "full license to hate" those perceived as perpetrators, and that historically, hatred of Jews requires little provocation.

Mackelmore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, had previously stated his intention to use stadium performances to amplify the message of "Free Palestine," aiming to show solidarity with people in Gaza and the West Bank.