At a time when experts on Middle Eastern geopolitics are being asked to give context for the violence between Israel and Palestine, many celebrities are also choosing to weigh in with their thoughts.
One such celebrity is WWE legend and actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. He has shared a long statement on his Instagram account in which he expressed his heartbreak and outrage at the events of the past four days.
The Rock’s statement on the Israel-Palestine conflict
“I’m heartbroken, angry, and sickened by the brutal murders and kidnapping of Jewish people through the horrific acts of the Hamas terrorist group,” he began.
“The growing loss of innocent Israeli and Palestinian lives is heart-wrenching as this war escalates to immense proportions.
“I don’t pretend to know everything about the complex conflict in the Middle East. It commands deep understanding, context and nuance.
“What I do know is hateful acts of terrorism like these are never justified.
“I condemn and denounce terrorism, and in this devastating moment, my heart goes out to all the innocent victims and families grieving for their lost loved ones.
“I pray for compassion and resolve. I pray for all innocent lives.”
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Unlike many celebrities, Johnson does not appear to be showing a clear allegiance with either side of the conflict, although, whilst mentioning the loss of Palestinian lives, he does not specifically mention the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.
The airstrikes were launched in response to a sudden surprise attack from Hamas on Israeli towns near the border and a music festival in the desert where hundreds of young people were killed and many kidnapped.