Justin Bieber wears keffiyeh: Cultural appropriation or silent solidarity?

Recently, Justin Bieber was photographed wearing a traditional keffiyeh, sparking discussions about cultural appropriation and celebrity responsibility.

While the keffiyeh is commonly worn by Arabs in the region as a traditional garment, it is increasingly recognized in the Western world as an emblem of Palestinian resistance, especially since it is associated with figures like Abu Obaida, the spokesperson for Hamas’ Qassam Brigades.

Many argue that Bieber's adoption of the keffiyeh is cultural appropriation given his silence on the ongoing atrocities faced by Palestinians and Lebanese people.

This has led to accusations that his fashion choice is not only tone-deaf but also an act of appropriation rather than appreciation. Wearing the keffiyeh without acknowledging its cultural and political context can be seen as diminishing its meaning and the struggles of those it represents.

Following October 7, Bieber has only shown solidarity with the Israeli Occupation, even posting a photo of Gaza with the caption “Praying for Israel”, mistaking the devastated strip for “Israel”.

Bieber has yet to show any form of solidarity towards Palestinians.

Here are some online reactions:

Don’t be delusional. That man has never spoken in support of Palestine. He’s very ignorant, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he supports Israel.

Justin Bieber spotted with a keffieh wrapped around his head

The same guy who posted ‘Pray for Israel’ with an Arial view of Gaza.. pic.twitter.com/Pdamo1XNBQ

Look, Justin Bieber is an incredibly stupid person, I'm convinced he has no idea what a keffiyeh is. He is a Zionist https://t.co/vUIcaYhgDw

Nah fk this guy. He thinks Keffiyeh is a trend. Don't forget that he once posted a picture of destructi0n of Gaza with a different caption. Fking dumb puppet @justinbieber https://t.co/otrnZiThV9 pic.twitter.com/4MhCI5xySA

After that pray for Israel post he needs to do a lot more than wear a Keffiyeh to make up for it

Justin Bieber was seen wearing a keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern headscarf, in support of Palestine  pic.twitter.com/DTexM4NQSS

Justin Bieber was seen wearing a keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern headscarf, in support of Palestine pic.twitter.com/APCWoAkpDw

Everyone is aware of Israel’s criminality—International courts recognize it, the UN General Assembly passed condemnations, and today Justin Bieber was spotted wearing a Keffiyeh.

Despite despair, the cycle of destruction will break. Time and pressure are enough to end Zionism. https://t.co/CKUJwsQY7a

Are yall okay in the comments. Is everyone but Justin Bieber allowed to grow from their mistakes n educate themselves? Idc I'm proud of him for educating himself n doing better. It's what EVERYONE should do when they're misinformed

Justin Bieber stands with humanity 
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