Zara campaign criticised for alleged Gaza resemblance

Clothing retailer Zara is receiving backlash and calls for a boycott after posting images from its latest campaign that critics say allude to scenes from the conflict in Gaza.

by John Harrington | 12/11/2023

The images, for Zara's Atelier series, feature a model surrounded by rubble and statues with missing limbs. One image shows a model carrying a mannequin wrapped in a white sheet.

ZARA ATELIER. Collection 04_The Jacket
A limited edition collection from the house celebrating our commitment to craftsmanship and passion for artistic expression. https://t.co/EiUO0avB4w pic.twitter.com/nK15aTYNdJ

— ZARA (@ZARA) December 8, 2023

#BoycottZara began trending on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday as social media users criticised the images. There were claims that coffins, phosphorus powder and the map of Israel were also depicted.

Zara has not issued a comment at the time of writing.

The incident has echoes of the backlash against Marks & Spencer after the UK retailer posted an image of burning Christmas party hats in colours resembling the Palestinian flag. M&S apologised for "any unintentional hurt caused".

Now you are next. Zara. #boycottZara �� pic.twitter.com/DRN995eKZd
— Emelia �� (@Bernadotte22) December 11, 2023

If you are asking why #BoycottZara ??
This is why..
Such shameful act.#CEASEFIRE_NOW pic.twitter.com/dmsUM8u9Ee
— ��  (@SyedKTweet) December 11, 2023

Zara is glorifying the genocide of the Palestinians. Boycott this genocide supporter brand. pic.twitter.com/i31oGXxorK
— Hassan Mafi ‏ (@thatdayin1992) December 11, 2023

Activists in Montreal sprayed Zara doors with pro-Palestine slogans after the company published its new collection designs which was inspired by the genocide and destruction happening now in Gaza.

Zara is facing now boycott campaigns after it glorified the murder of Palestinians pic.twitter.com/jGMdNSkPNp
— Kuffiya (@Kuffiyateam) December 11, 2023