The Miss Universe Organization, which has een hosting the renowned global pageant for many years, expressed its pride and excitement over the participation of a Palestinian contestant for the first time in the event’s history, considering it a step that celebrates cultural diversity and women’s empowerment worldwide.

Hebrew media outlets published the organization’s celebratory statement at a time when Tel Aviv is facing international concern due to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, whose effects have extended to sports, arts, the economy, and now the Miss Universe pageant.

A Symbol of Resilience and Determination Israeli Channel 12 reported that Palestinian model and activist Nadine Ayoub will compete in the pageant scheduled to take place in Thailand in November, alongside 130 contestants from around the world, including Tel Aviv. The organization emphasized that Nadine’s participation reflects the celebration of cultural diversity and the empowerment of women.

The organization also stated that Nadine Ayoub embodies the resilience and determination that define our world today.

In a heartfelt post on her Instagram account, Nadine wrote: “I am proud to announce representing Palestine for the first time in the history of the Miss Universe pageant. When Palestine suffers, especially in Gaza, I speak on behalf of a people who refuse to remain silent. I represent every Palestinian woman and girl the world needs to see.”

Widespread Reception Nadine’s participation received broad support, but it also faced criticism from some activists and hardliners in Tel Aviv, who viewed the move as an attempt to politicize a global platform and highlight the Palestinian narrative at the expense of what they called the “cultural neutrality” expected in such events.