Australian Influencer Faces Backlash Over Dubai Missile Video Amid Iran Conflict
An Australian influencer residing in Dubai has sparked widespread criticism after posting a video of herself reacting to Iranian missiles flying over the city's skyscrapers, with many labeling her comments as entitled and out of touch with the gravity of the Middle East conflict.
Louise Starkey's Controversial Remarks
Louise Starkey, who has lived in the United Arab Emirates for two years, shared footage of the missiles, expressing that she was understandably so scared as the conflict reached the nation. In the video, she questioned, It's not meant to be happening here... Can't everyone just chill out? and described hearing loud explosions that shook windows throughout the day, calling it the weirdest sound ever.
However, her additional statements drew significant ire online. Starkey claimed the experience was not fun and asserted that the bombing was not meant to be happening in the UAE, adding, We are supposed to be in the safest place. I love the UAE, I love being here. I feel so safe all the time, and now I can see it. Please just stop.
Social Media Outrage and Deleted Content
The video, which has since been deleted, was flooded with comments condemning her perspective. One user remarked, The entitlement. It happens in Gaza, it's fine. But if it happens to your luxury lifestyle, 'it's not meant to happen'. Another criticized, 'Not meant to be happening here' has to be one of the most selfish statements I have ever heard. As if it's MEANT to happen anywhere. But am I surprised!? Really, REALLY NOT.
Additional Backlash Against British Influencer
In a related incident, British influencer and business owner Ellie from Sketched by Siena also faced backlash for complaining about being stuck at Dubai airport as tensions between Iran, Israel, and the US escalated. After her flight was delayed following a business trip, she filmed herself at the airport, stating, I assume we're going to have to check into a hotel somewhere. It's really annoying actually cause we have got events.
Social media users quickly called her out of touch, with one asking, Is this a joke? and another noting, This is so out of touch - people are dying. Ellie responded to the backlash by claiming she was unaware of the severity of the situation and subsequently deleted her video.
Broader Context and Australian Citizens in the Region
Amid these controversies, Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that approximately 115,000 Australian citizens remain in the Middle East during the ongoing conflict, highlighting the widespread impact and safety concerns in the region.
