Noky Simay Ayoub, the newly crowned Miss Universe UK, is facing criticism after referring to the Gaza conflict as a “genocide” during an interview last month.
The 27-year-old contestant said she had delayed entering the international competition until this year, explaining that the Hamas attack on Israel and the war that followed shaped her decision to step forward.
Ayoub’s remarks have sparked a backlash in Israel and beyond.
The runner-up in the Miss Israel contest openly questioned her participation in November’s pageant, arguing that she should denounce Hamas and accusing her of misrepresenting the conflict.
Others have also called her comments politically charged and inappropriate for the global stage.
Israel has consistently denied accusations of genocide in Gaza, insisting that its military campaign targets Hamas rather than civilians.
However, rights groups and international voices have raised concerns about the humanitarian toll, with thousands of civilians killed and widespread destruction across the enclave.
Beauty pageants such as Miss Universe often present contestants as cultural ambassadors, but the platform has also become a stage for political debates.
Ayoub’s remarks have reignited questions about whether contestants should engage in controversial global issues or remain focused on cultural representation and charitable causes.
As the November pageant approaches, Ayoub is likely to remain under scrutiny, not only for her performance in the competition but also for how she addresses the criticism surrounding her statements.
For supporters, her willingness to speak out reflects courage and authenticity. For detractors, it risks overshadowing the event with political disputes.
With tensions surrounding the Gaza war continuing to divide public opinion, Ayoub’s participation adds an unusual layer of political sensitivity to a contest that has long struggled to keep beauty and global politics apart.