Does celebrity support for Palestine matter?

Readers express mixed views over celebrities voicing support for Palestine. Other topics: Aamir Khan, Israel, plane mishap

Readers express mixed views about celebrities such as Zayn Malik supporting the Palestinian cause. Laura Bag / EPA

I refer to the article It's different now: even Hollywood is criticising Israel, August 6).

The problem is that it’s becoming “fashionable” to talk about the Palestine issue. But if we ask around, we shall see that many people have no clue about the history of Palestine.

The Palestinians have been suffering since 1948 and want their land to be recognised. Before we make statements such as “I am supporting this” and “I am sponsoring that”, we must first study the subject and know what the underlying cause is.

Palestine is not a “fashionable” issue. I completely support Palestine, but I can say that I read everything I could find over the years about its history, and that is why I support them.

Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi

It might not work on a mature audience, but these celebrities raise consciousness with the younger generation – teenagers are now asking the questions. Youngsters need to understand that there is more to life than selfies and the latest gadget.

Kate Bell, Dubai

Older and wiser minds might be cynical when celebrities speak up, but even if a few younger, more impressionable minds are influenced then it’s worth it. That said, I do think it a little unfair that celebrities are all tarred with the same brush when they voice their opinions on issues like this.

Sure, some may well be doing it because it’s fashionable and it shows “how much they care”, but some really are doing it because they care and want to raise the issue. They have a significant pulpit from which to broadcast their views – doing so shouldn’t automatically be criticised.

Ben Adamson, UK

Israeli atrocities are not allegation

I am disappointed with the title you chose to discuss the possible legal recourse for Palestinians: Justice for victims of alleged Israeli crimes remains elusive (August 11). That's because the whole world knows that Israeli atrocities are not "allegations". Trying to be seen as fair at a time when the whole world is condemning Israeli actions, including the UN, shows that you are not rising to the challenge.

Ahmad Al Akhras, Abu Dhabi

Aamir must avoid cheap publicity

Is Aamir Khan one of the Hindi film industry's most intelligent actors (Yes, Aamir Khan is nude – but we've seen worse from Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif, August 10)? I doubt it. Regardless of whether he is intelligent or not, his latest antics for publicity project him as a poor role model. The Oscar nomination of one of his films doesn't make this any more condonable. I fail to see the logic.

Dushan R Motwani, Dubai

What’s the big fuss? I sincerely do not worry about such things. If you do not like the poster, just do not watch the movie and move on. There are more important matters to concern ourselves with.

Name withheld by request

Accidents are bound to occur

Mishaps and disasters are beyond the control of human beings or airlines (Emirates Airline flight from Dubai suffers engine fire on landing in Boston, August 12). They are unpredictable and bound to occur despite the best security and precautionary measures in place. I am glad that the passengers and crew members escaped unhurt in this incident.

Fatima Suhail, Sharjah

Aviation is better than before and much more secure. But incidents are unpredictable.

MA Sydra, Dubai