Table of Contents
- Controversial Moment at Miss Universe
- Melanie Shiraz's Response
- Backlash and Criticism
- Nadeen Ayoub's Representation
- Previous Experiences of Contestants
During this year's Miss Universe event, viewers noticed a controversial moment when Miss Israel appeared to give Miss Palestine a hostile glare.
A viral clip of the incident circulating online has generated significant backlash, prompting the beauty queen to address the rumors.
Melanie Shiraz, who is representing Israel , has firmly denied the allegations, asserting that she was not giving her fellow contestant a side glance, according to reports from Israel.
The surprising moment Miss Israel seems to glare at Miss Palestine
Melanie Shiraz has faced a wave of abuse online after the clip gained popularity
Miss Israel, Melanie Shiraz, has denied claims of giving her fellow contestant a dirty lookCredit: EPA
Miss Palestine has yet to comment on the incidentCredit: EPA
The beauty pageant contestant has received intense online abuse for the brief moment she seemingly directed a negative look towards Palestinian representative, Nadeen Ayoub.
In the video, the contestant briefly turns her head towards Nadeen during the pageant event held in Thailand last week.
Melanie went viral on social media , with viewers criticizing her for what appeared to be blatant judgment.
While some viewers suggested she was clearly “jealous” of Nadeen, others debated who was “more beautiful.”
The Israel Times cited an Instagram comment from the Israeli beauty queen, where she refuted the incident, stating: “It’s very clear that I was simply looking towards other contestants as they came on stage.”
“Adding dramatic language to ordinary moments—especially when it misrepresents individuals—does not promote kindness or fairness,” she added.
“I hope you will reconsider in the future before prioritizing virality at the expense of others.”
The severe backlash Melanie is experiencing coincides with Israel facing considerable international criticism for its actions in Gaza.
Israel initiated a military offensive in Gaza in response to the October 7, 2023, attack by the Palestinian group Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 Israelis and 240 individuals taken hostage.
Despite the controversy, Melanie is scheduled to participate in the Miss Universe 2025 final coronation event on November 21, despite being labeled “Miss Genocide” by some online users.
Moreover, many Instagram users have commented “Free Palestine ” under her recent posts.
Reports indicate that over 69,000 Palestinians have lost their lives due to the ongoing assaults.
Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire agreement last month, brokered by President Donald Trump, which ensured the return of all living hostages held by Palestinian militants.
Nadeen was announced as a contestant for Miss Universe, which has been held for 72 years, back in August.
Melanie has been labeled ‘Miss Genocide’ by online critics
