JERUSALEM, Israel – Renowned actor Michael Douglas paid a heartfelt visit to an Israeli kibbutz that was devastated by a Hamas attack, which marked the beginning of Israel’s conflict with the Islamic militant group. During his visit to Kibbutz Be’eri, Douglas met with community members and witnessed the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attack that left homes in ruins and claimed the lives of around 100 individuals, with 30 others being held hostage.
Walking through the remnants of the attack, Douglas expressed solidarity with the families of the hostages and paid tribute to the victims of a tragic music party where over 300 people lost their lives. Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, welcomed Douglas and presented him with symbolic gifts, including an Israeli dog tag necklace and a yellow ribbon pin, representing support for the hostages still in Hamas’ grasp.
In a somber reflection on the situation, Douglas acknowledged the profound impact of the harrowing events and expressed hope for the safe release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Furthermore, he criticized pro-Palestinian protesters on American campuses, accusing them of being influenced by misinformation and lacking a comprehensive understanding of the conflict.
This visit by Douglas is part of a series of visits by American celebrities and politicians to Israel’s southern region near the Gaza border since the initial Hamas attack on Oct. 7. The presence of high-profile figures like Douglas underscores the international attention and concern for the ongoing conflict and the plight of those affected by the violence. The solidarity shown by Douglas and others amplifies the calls for peace and the safe return of the hostages, highlighting the importance of global unity in times of crisis.