Hostile Reception for Miss Israel at Stanford

Miss Israel 2025, Melanie Shiraz, faced a tense atmosphere from Stanford University students during a free speech event at White Plaza on Wednesday, alongside Israeli Defense Force soldiers.

While engaging with students, a cyclist reportedly took a sign from Shiraz’s table. In response, a soldier accompanying her tackled the student, identified as Margil Sánchez Carmona.

Sánchez Carmona alleged that the soldier “opened fire” on him and that he was choked for “several seconds.”

Campus police arrived shortly after the incident, though it’s unclear if any arrests were made. They later stated that the investigation into the matter is ongoing and that findings will be submitted to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Shiraz mentioned that the soldier believed the student may have taken one of their virtual reality headsets, which were being used to show videos of the tragic massacre at the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7th.

Shiraz aimed to foster a dialogue with the students, hoping “to create at least a little bit of empathy, if not understanding.” She is known for her pro-Israel stance and has publicly commented on the October 7 tragedy.

On the other hand, Sánchez Carmona claimed that he and other students were personally insulted by both Shiraz and the soldier. He expressed no regret about taking the sign, stating, “If I was given the opportunity to take another poster, I would do it.” He criticized what he deemed the inappropriate nature of the debate, suggesting it lacked the required empathy.

A member of the Stanford Democratic Party remarked on Sánchez Carmona’s actions, calling them “excessive force” by the soldiers.

Shiraz offered a different perspective on the confrontation, describing the students’ remarks as “horrible” and “hateful.” She noted that the situation escalated as more students gathered around, leaving them feeling surrounded.

Another student, Hana Spahia, labeled the attendees at Shiraz’s table as “propagandists,” questioning the decision of a student organization to host individuals associated with alleged war crimes, especially given the violence that broke out over something as trivial as a cardboard sign.

Stamford police assured that they are dedicated to maintaining White Plaza as a venue for free speech and emphasized the importance of safe and open expression of opinions.