The devastating California wildfires, which have been raging since Wednesday, have killed at least ten people and affected thousands more. As residents struggle to cope with the destruction, the Israeli embassy in Washington issued a message of solidarity, expressing support for the victims and first responders. However, the embassy’s message has sparked significant backlash online, as social media users question the empathy behind it.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Israeli embassy wrote: “Our hearts are with the residents of Southern California as wildfires continue to impact communities. Israel stands in solidarity with those affected, and we send strength to the brave firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and homes.” The Israeli embassy intended to show support, but the timing and context have fueled criticism.
Our hearts are with the residents of Southern California as wildfires continue to impact communities. Israel stands in solidarity with those affected, and we send strength to the brave firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and homes.
— Embassy of Israel to the USA (@IsraelinUSA) January 9, 2025
Backlash on Message on California Wildfires
The ongoing military actions in Gaza, widely criticized for the heavy toll on Palestinian lives, have fueled the backlash. Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, the country has engaged in an intense conflict. The fighting has killed over 46,000 Palestinians, with women and children making up the majority of the casualties, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Israel has also received significant financial support from the U.S. government. Approximately $26 billion in military aid being allocated to the country. Many critics online now question how Israel can express sympathy for the victims of the California wildfires while continuing its military actions in Gaza.
Some social media users voiced their frustration, writing: “You burn hospitals and refugees on a live stream.”
You burn hospitals and refugees on a live stream. pic.twitter.com/2HnAEUuTBw
— Talha Ahmad (@talhaahmad967) January 9, 2025
While others referred to Israel’s actions in Gaza, with one user commenting, “Hearts? You don’t have that.”
Hearts? You don’t have that.
— Dusko Antic (@TheLucifer_Ra) January 9, 2025
The online criticism reflects growing anger over the disparity between Israel’s treatment of Palestinians and its show of solidarity for the U.S. public during a disaster. Many have questioned the sincerity of Israel’s message, given its ongoing military actions in Gaza.
The wildfires in Los Angeles County have caused widespread destruction, with tens of thousands of people being forced to evacuate. Firefighters are making progress as winds weaken, but new fires near the LA-Ventura border have led to further evacuations. The fires, particularly the Palisades and Eaton Fires, have destroyed around 10,000 structures. The air quality worsens and the full extent of the damage becomes clear. California authorities have called for additional support, including assistance from the National Guard.
