On October 7, members of the Palestinian Hamas movement stormed southern Israel in an attack lasting several hours that caused thousands of casualties. The action marked the beginning of a new conflict between Israel and Hamas, and although it is far from the fashion world, industry leaders expressed solidarity with the victims of the conflict.
Zara closes stores
Shortly after Saturday’s attack, Spanish fashion group Inditex announced the closure of its 84 stores in Israel, describing it as a temporary move. Zara parent company confirmed the closures through the various brand websites, where a statement read: “Our stores remain temporarily closed and return periods will be extended for 30 days after they reopen.”
American Eagle makes a clear statement
American Eagle made a clear statement when it replaced its iconic Times Square billboard with an image of the Israeli flag over the weekend. Craig Brommers, the company’s chief marketing officer, shared a photo of it in a post on LinkedIn.
Model Gigi Hadid makes her point clear
Supermodel Gigi Hadid, who has Palestinian roots, was keen to clarify her position from the start and expressed her solidarity and stance in a post on her personal Instagram account. “My thoughts are with everyone affected by this unjustified tragedy and with every day that innocent lives are wiped out by this conflict – too many of them children,” the post began. “Terrorizing innocent people is inconsistent with and does not help the Free Palestine movement,” Hadid continued. “I know my words will never be enough or heal the deep wounds of so many people, but I will always pray for the safety of innocent lives.”
Victoria Beckham speaks out
British fashion designer Victoria Beckham also commented on the incident on social media. “In this time of crisis, my thoughts are with the innocent victims of the recent unjust and barbaric attacks. These brutal terrorist attacks have left both Israeli and Palestinian civilians suffering. As humans, we cannot help but be deeply affected by these shocking acts. As a mother and as a woman, it is truly horrific to see the pain, suffering and loss of life on both sides. I stand with those around the world who are calling for an end to violence and hatred. “I stand for peace,” Beckham said.
Stella McCartney reflects the feelings
Another British designer, Stella McCartney, took to Instagram to voice her support: “It is heartbreaking to see the people and families being senselessly killed and brutalized at this moment. This is terrorism. You don’t have to be from Israel or Palestine, you just have to be human. Now is the time to come together and not let them tear you apart. There is never an excuse for killing innocent people and we can all agree on that.”
Mango is closing almost all stores
Spanish fashion retailer Mango has also decided to close its total of around 50 stores in Israel, where its retail network is operated by a franchise partner. As Fashion Network reports, four stores will remain open until further notice pending further developments.
H&M stores closed until further notice
H&M’s franchise stores in Israel will also remain closed “until further notice,” according to a spokesman for the Swedish retailer, according to Bloomberg. H&M currently operates 24 stores in the region.
Lush sparks controversy
Contrary to popular belief, cosmetics brand Lush has been at the center of an online debate after a “Boycott Israel” sign was placed in the window of one of its stores. The message was displayed in the company’s Dublin branch and was shared by social media users who expressed varying views.
In response to the decision, a Lush spokesperson said in a statement to UTV: “We are a diverse company with employees of all ethnicities and religions, whose personal views and opinions may vary, but the following is our corporate position.”
“Lush condemns all violence and injustice. We wish for peace and security for all Israeli and Palestinian people. We support compliance with international law and the human rights of all people,” it said.
CFDA “condemns” the attack
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) released its own statement on Saturday’s attack, noting that it “stands with all those determined to fight terrorism.” “We mourn the people who lost their lives and pray for an end to the cycle of violence and for lasting peace,” the association added.
This translated article originally appeared on FashionUnited.uk.