Dalia Ziada, a prominent Egyptian author and advocate for liberal democracy, has been compelled to go into hiding due to intense backlash in Egypt. This reaction followed her criticism of Hamas’s violent attack on Israel and her support for Israel’s military response. Ziada, in her statements, emphasized the potential regional benefits of neutralizing Hamas, which she condemned as a terrorist organization.
Her views, expressed during a discussion with the Institute for National Security Studies, an Israeli think tank, have led to severe repercussions. She faced death threats and legal complaints, with demands for her prosecution as an alleged spy for Israel and for purportedly inciting war crimes.
The controversy stems from her denouncement of Hamas’s attack on October 7, which resulted in significant civilian casualties, including over 1,200 deaths. Furthermore, she highlighted the abduction of at least 240 individuals, among them children and the elderly, to the Gaza Strip.
In subsequent interviews, including one with the Kan public broadcaster, Ziada reiterated her stance, justifying Israel’s military efforts aimed at overthrowing Hamas in Gaza and securing the release of hostages. Her unwavering position in these interviews has further fueled the outcry against her in Egypt.
