Ms. Rachel Faces Backlash Over Video with Pro-Hamas Photographer
Popular child entertainers are often scrutinized online, especially when involved with Palestinian parents who allege that many support Hamas. Rachel Kuerso, known as Ms. Rachel, has garnered millions of views across platforms like YouTube, leading to a deal with Netflix. However, her recent video with photographer Motazu Azaiza has drawn criticism, prompting some fans to pledge a boycott.
Azaiza, a Palestinian photographer, covers the ongoing conflict in Gaza and has made posts that seem to glorify violence in support of Hamas military leader Yahya Sinwar.
In a video shared with her 3.4 million followers, Rachel introduced Azaiza, who advocated for the ‘resistance’ and encouraged praise for Sinwar. Eitan Fishberger, an author, expressed concern, stating, “Millions of children consume her content. Exposing them to Motazu is exposing them to the Cult of Palestinian Death.”
Critics argue that Rachel, who creates content for young children, should not partner with someone who promotes ideologies tied to violence and hatred. One commentator remarked, “Mr. Rachel is Hamas who helps sell out… a Palestinian platform defending the invitation of Israeli children.”
Questions have been raised about whether she has ever featured Israeli children to highlight the trauma they face due to the war declared by Hamas. Notably, Yoni Michanie pointed out the absence of such representations in her work, asking, “Have you ever featured Israeli children on her show?”
Additionally, organizations fighting anti-Semitism have accused Rachel of spreading anti-Israel propaganda amid the complex situation in Gaza. Some of her supporters argue that her faith, which promotes understanding and inclusion, should drive her to address issues relevant to all affected by the conflict, including both Palestinian and Israeli children.
Azaiza has been recognized as one of the top 100 influential figures according to Time magazine in 2024, which adds another layer to this public discourse.
