The mannequin took to Twitter to set the file straight on her beliefs concerning the battle within the Center East. It seems that some individuals imagine the 22-year-old disrespected the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in a picture of her shoe. The heel of her boot was resting on a window, making it appear to be she was kicking planes that had the UAE and Saudi flag on them.
This led to requires manufacturers to cease working with Hadid, in addition to the now-viral hashtag #BellaHadidIsRacist.
However, Bella is now clarifying that she meant no “disrespect” to the nations. “I would never want my posts or platform to be used for hate against anyone, especially those of my own beautiful & powerful heritage,” she explains. “I love and care so much about the Muslim and Arab side of my family as well as my brothers and sisters throughout the world.”
She continues, “Not only do I have so much respect from the bottom of my heart, I have always tried to stand up for what I feel is right, especially regarding the great Middle East. I have never and will never be the one to talk down on these countries… Only to spread love, and the true beauty of them, as the way I was taught by my Teta and my father. To feel as if I have disappointed you is what hurts me the most.”