Source: Global Times New Media
According to the Russian TELEVISION Station (rt) reported on the 25th, Mark Ruffalo, an American actor who played the "Hulk" in "The Avengers", caused a disagreement on social media after apologizing for his provocative remarks about Israel. Some called his apology a brave move, while others accused him of being spineless.
American actor Mark Ruffalo Image source: Reuters
The Hollywood star and other prominent figures have expressed their views on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that has erupted in recent weeks. Israel's plan to evict Palestinian families from an area of East Jerusalem to make room for Jewish settlers sparked days of violent protests. Then, earlier in May, clashes broke out between Hamas and Israel, with civilian casualties on both sides, but the Israeli military was accused of a disproportionate response that resulted in the deaths of many civilians, including children.
Ruffalo tweeted calling for economic restrictions on Israel
Earlier this month, Ruffalo called for economic restrictions on Israel, writing in a tweet: "Sanctions against South Africa have helped liberate blacks – and now is the time to sanction Israel to liberate palestinians." He also attached a link to a petition underneath the tweet calling for international sanctions against key industries in Israel "until palestinians gain full equal civil rights."
Ruffalo apologized for his previous remarks
However, in a tweet released on the 24th local time, Ruffalo tried to clarify his position on the conflict. He wrote, "I have reflected and would like to apologize for my post during the recent Israeli-Hamas conflict suggesting that Israel is engaged in 'genocide.'" That's inaccurate, inflammatory, disrespectful, and used to defend anti-Semitism in the United States and abroad. Now is the time to avoid [the situation] from continuing to expand. ”
Screenshot of Dove Hikind's tweet
The tweet was cheered by Israeli supporters. Dov hikind, a former New York state legislator and founder of the Americans against antisemitism, said Ruffalo's apology was unexpected but welcomed. Hikind wrote: "Admitting mistakes always requires a certain degree of courage. ”
The pro-Israel group Stand with us has expressed similar support. The group's executive director, Michael Dickson, tweeted that importantly, the actor had "clarified the facts" and that Dixon believed that the lie of "genocide" was used to incite violence — sometimes deadly violence, incite anti-Semitism.
Rufallow was accused on Twitter after apologizing
But many expressed disappointment at the 180-degree turn in Ruffalo's attitude, accusing him of adjusting his original blunt view of the issue and succumbing to pressure. One netizen said that Ruffalo lacked backbone, and he retracted his remarks because he did not want to "disturb civilized society." Some netizens sarcastically said, "This is the boot you lick?? It's definitely the best in the world. ”
Other observers say Ruffalo has now become part of the "problem" by not supporting his own condemnation of Israel's Palestinian policy. One netizen wrote in frustration: "It is a shame that you have chosen to confuse criticism of Israeli atrocities with anti-Semitism." It is not, and should never be, used to justify racism. ”
Ruffalo is not the only celebrity to have sparked controversy on social media over his views on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Earlier this month, Swedish pop singer Zara Larsson was accused of anti-Semitism for posting that Israel imposed "apartheid" on Palestinians. The controversial post was later removed.
American supermodel Bella Hadid has previously come under intense criticism for participating in a pro-Palestinian march in New York. Israel's official Twitter account denounced Hadid, accusing her of advocating "the elimination of the Jewish state (i.e., Israel)." But the model's father is Palestinian.