In the face of the escalating Gaza conflict, social media users have initiated a unique campaign, “Operation Blockout,” targeting celebrities like Taylor Swift, Kim Kardashian, and Beyoncé for their perceived silence on the issue.
Whats is Operation Blockout?
The Israel-Hamas war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, has led to significant casualties and displacement. In response, social media users launched Operation Blockout, a campaign aimed at celebrities who have remained silent on the conflict.
The Met Gala 2024, an extravagant event with a hefty ticket price, coincided with Israel’s assault on Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. This stark contrast sparked comparisons of the event with the dystopian film franchise, The Hunger Games, on platforms like TikTok, fueling the call for Operation Blockout.
List of Celebrities to Block
Daily lists of celebrities to block are circulating on social media platforms. These lists feature big names like Harry Styles, Justin and Hailey Bieber, and Met Gala attendees like Lana Del Rey and Karlie Kloss. Interestingly, some of these celebrities had previously signed an open letter to President Joe Biden, calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas.
The Impact of Operation Blockout
The impact of this campaign is evident, with Kim Kardashian reportedly losing 3 million followers since its inception. However, the effectiveness of this initiative is being questioned by some users, who feel that the support now being shown by celebrities for Palestinians seems disingenuous.
Product Boycotts and Celebrity Backlash in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the campaign has taken a different turn. People are not only blocking celebrities but also boycotting products endorsed by them. Popular brands like Pepsi and Coke are facing backlash as people start boycotting celebrities who support or act in advertisements for these products.
Operation Blockout shows social media’s power in voicing dissent and demanding action. The campaign’s growing momentum raises questions about how celebrities and the public will respond to the call for solidarity with Palestine.
