Selena Gomez Takes Break from Social Media Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict in Gaza Strip
Selena Gomez, the popular actress and singer, has decided to step away from social media as the Israel-Hamas war intensifies in the Gaza Strip. In an Instagram Story post, Gomez expressed her heartbreak over the violence and terror happening around the world and her desire to protect all people, especially children. She apologized if her words were not enough, but emphasized her inability to stand by while innocent people suffer.
This announcement comes as Instagram users have been urging Gomez to speak out about the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The United Nations Children’s Fund has warned about a looming water supply catastrophe, and the Israeli military’s incursion into the Gaza Strip has escalated. Despite these pleas, Gomez has refrained from posting on TikTok and Instagram since early October. She often takes social media breaks for the sake of her mental health.
In another Instagram Story post, Gomez shared how having a 10-year-old sister affects her perspective on the war’s impact on civilians. She expressed her deep concern for children and innocent lives, stating that it makes her tragically sick.
The war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 3,450 children, according to UNICEF. Dehydration and psychological trauma are also posing significant threats to more than 1 million children in Gaza. UNICEF has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to address these devastating consequences.
When it comes to posting about such complex issues on social media, experts advise seeking a broader understanding before sharing. They highlight the importance of reading from multiple media outlets, including local voices, to obtain a comprehensive perspective. Sharing infographics can be helpful, but it’s crucial to go beyond these sources and verify the credibility of the information.
Contributing: David Oliver, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Selena Gomez announces social media break, alludes to ‘horror’ in Gaza
