Multi-platinum global superstar Abel Tesfaye, better known to his legion of fans as The Weeknd, has once again demonstrated his commitment to humanitarian efforts by pledging an additional $2 million through his XO Humanitarian Fund to combat famine in the Gaza Strip. This latest contribution is aimed at providing essential aid to families enduring dire circumstances amidst the ongoing genocide.
In collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), The Weeknd’s donation will facilitate the supply of 1,500 metric tonnes of fortified wheat flour, effectively feeding over 157,000 Palestinians. This support comes at a crucial time, as the region grapples with severe food shortages exacerbated by the ongoing genocide.
This isn’t the first time the multi Grammy award-winning artist, who has been in a relationship with Palestinian-American DJ Simi Khadra since 2022, has stepped up to support Gaza. In December last year, the Canadian hitmaker pledged $2.5 million, equivalent to four million emergency meals. Urging his fans to join him in providing assistance, The Blinding Lights singer has consistently used his platform to raise awareness and mobilize support for those who need it most— other recent philanthropic endeavors saw him give millions of dollars to charitable organizations in Ethiopia, Lebanon, and more.
Corinne Fleischer, director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe Region at WFP, expressed gratitude for The Weeknd’s generosity, emphasizing the significant impact his contribution will have on alleviating hunger and providing relief to Palestinian families in need.
However, the 34-year-old singer’s actions also serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing genocide unfolding in Gaza, where living conditions continue to deteriorate rapidly. The staggering toll of human lives lost and infrastructure destroyed underscores the urgent need for international intervention and support.
According to Al Jazeera, the latest death toll in Gaza stands at 34,979 Palestinians killed, including over 14,500 children and 8,400 women, with tens of thousands more injured or missing. The situation is further exacerbated by widespread destruction, with more than half of Gaza’s homes, 80% of commercial facilities, and 73% of school buildings damaged or destroyed by Israeli attacks.
As of April 28, reports from various humanitarian organizations paint a grim picture of the situation on the ground, with essential infrastructure such as hospitals and water wells severely impacted. The relentless violence has left Gaza’s population vulnerable, with nowhere safe to seek refuge from the constant threat of airstrikes and bombings.
Every hour in Gaza, lives are lost, families are torn apart, and communities are left reeling from the devastating effects of this ongoing conflict. The Weeknd’s continued support serves as a beacon of hope, but the need for sustained international action to end the suffering in Gaza remains paramount.
