An Israeli airstrike in the Gaza city of Rafah triggered a massive blaze, resulting in the deaths of 45 people in a tent camp, sparking global outrage. The Indian film fraternity joined international voices in condemning Israel’s actions and showing solidarity with Gaza. Prominent celebrities such as Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Varun Dhawan, Sonam Kapoor, rapper Honey Singh, and Madhuri Dixit Nene took to social media to express their grief and anger.
Alia Bhatt shared an Instagram story with a post stating, “All children deserve love. All children deserve safety. All children deserve peace. All children deserve life. And all mothers deserve to be able to give their children those things,” with the hashtag “#AllEyesOnRafah”. Kareena Kapoor Khan reposted a statement from UNICEF condemning the attack, highlighting the horrific images of burned children and families from bombed tents in Rafah. The UNICEF post, signed by Executive Director Catherine Russell, called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and an end to the senseless killing of children.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared a viral picture with the words “All Eyes On Rafah” inscribed on it, while Malaika Arora emphasized that “there is no such thing as killing children legally.” Other celebrities, including Varun Dhawan, Sonam Kapoor, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Dulquer Salmaan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Swara Bhasker, and many more, shared the same viral image in their Instagram stories, showcasing their support for Gaza.
Rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh expressed his heartbreak, while former tennis player Sania Mirza, comedian Vir Das, and several others added their voices to the outcry. This incident in Rafah, where families were preparing to sleep when the strike hit the Tel Al-Sultan neighborhood, has been described by survivors as a tragic mistake. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the error, stating, “Despite our utmost efforts not to harm innocent civilians, last night, there was a tragic mistake. We are investigating the incident and will obtain a conclusion because this is our policy.”
The Israeli offensive in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, following an unprecedented attack by the militant group Hamas on Israel. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties, including a significant number of children. The Indian film community’s response underscores a broader global condemnation of the violence and a call for peace and protection for all innocent lives caught in the conflict.
In summary, the celebrities’ collective outcry highlights the universal demand for the end of violence against children and the establishment of peace and safety for all families affected by the conflict.
