Ben Platt Expresses Support for Palestinians, Discusses Tensions with Pro-Israel Family
Tony Award-winning actor and singer Ben Platt has recently expressed his support for Palestinian rights, sharing posts on social media that align him with pro-Palestinian activists. These posts also hint at tensions with his pro-Israel family.
Platt reposted a speech by comedian Hannah Einbinder, which condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. He praised her words and shared his feelings of being at odds with his community’s political views. While he did not directly name any family members, his father, Marc Platt, is a prominent Hollywood producer with well-known pro-Israel stances.
Additionally, Platt used his Instagram Story to mention Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate recently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Khalil’s arrest has sparked widespread attention from human rights groups and campus activists. Platt’s mention appeared to show solidarity with Khalil, although he did not provide further details.
These posts mark a rare public stance from the “Dear Evan Hansen” star, especially given his family’s political background. Platt’s actions reflect a generational divide in the American Jewish community, with younger voices increasingly critical of Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the occupation of Palestinian territories.
Although Platt has not issued a comprehensive statement on the matter, his support for figures like Einbinder and Khalil places him among a growing group of public figures cautiously navigating the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the debate over Gaza continues, Platt’s social media activity highlights the intersection of personal identity, family history, and public influence for high-profile entertainers.
