Moroccan actress uses Keffiyeh dress to support Palestine
British Moroccan actor Laila Rouass expressed her support for the Palestinians in Gaza with a bold fashion statement at a movie premiere, reports Arab news plus agencies.
Rouass made use of the event to show her support as she wore a dress printed with the Palestinian Keffiyeh when she attended the documentary premiere “The Edge of Everything” about her partner, seven-time World Snooker Champion Ronnie O’Sullivan.
She told Arab News that she had been deeply affected by the Israeli violence in the Gaza Strip. “There’s not a minute in the day where I don’t think about it, where it doesn’t cut me. I’m looking at the news, hoping these journalists and doctors that we’ve fallen in love with haven’t been bombed or murdered” she stated.
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Rouass commented on her decision to use the occasion to express solidarity with the Palestinians. She stated “I don’t feel like dressing up and putting a fancy frock on; that’s the truth. I don’t feel like doing that. But I have to support my partner, so this is about how I can make it meaningful for me. How do I make my own protest when I have an opportunity?”
She acknowledged the personal risks that come with speaking out, including loss of work but noted the positive outcome of increased global awareness and education about the Palestinians’ plight and the necessity for standing up for what she believed in. The stunt also is controversial in that it clashes with King Mohamed’s handling of relations with Israel during the genocide in Gaza. Many Moroccans might consider her critique of the King to be anti patriotic.
She called Israel’s violence in Gaza “repulsive, heartbreaking, and wrong on every humanitarian level,” and criticised world leaders for their support of Israel’s actions.
READ: African leaders condemn Israel for Gaza war
Rouass, known for her role as Sahira Shah in a popular BBC TV series set in a hospital called Holby City, ventured beyond her acting career to share insights on well-being. In June 2022, she launched the WholeAndThenSome platform, aimed at promoting happiness and well-being while assisting followers in maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Arab news plus agencies.
