High-end fashion label Dior is under fire on social media after reports surfaced that it has cast Israeli model May Tager, replacing the long-time brand face and Palestinian-American Bella Hadid, in its recent advertising campaign.
This move sparked calls for a boycott of the brand on social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), with numerous users taking to the platform to voice their disapproval.
This controversy erupted following a conflict where Jerusalem reported over 1,400 fatalities after an attack by Hamas operatives. In response, Israel has initiated a significant offensive against Hamas in Gaza.
Bella Hadid, who has been with Dior since 2016 and is well-known for her public support of the Palestinian cause and her criticism of Israeli policy, has yet to make any statements regarding the rumored change.
The story was first reported by Turkey’s Yeni Safak and was subsequently covered by a local Israeli newspaper, igniting a social media debate concerning Dior’s decision to shift from Hadid.
Hadid, of Palestinian descent through her father, along with Dior, has not issued any public remarks regarding the switch. The 24-year-old boasts an impressive portfolio, having worked with top-tier international labels like Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, and Victoria’s Secret.
Recent posts on her Instagram also hinted at Tager’s prominent role in Dior’s new holiday campaign advertisement.