The Miss Universe Organization, MUO, confirmed on Sunday that Ayoub, who was crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, will participate in the 74th edition of the global pageant, scheduled for November 21.

“Ms. Ayoub, an accomplished advocate and model from Palestine, embodies the resilience and determination that define our platform,” MUO said in a statement, adding that it was “pleased to confirm” her participation alongside more than 130 contestants from across the world.

Reacting to the announcement, Ayoub expressed her excitement on Instagram, describing the milestone as an opportunity to amplify Palestinian voices on the global stage.

“I am honored to announce that for the first time ever, Palestine will be represented at Miss Universe. As Palestine endures heartbreak, especially in Gaza, I carry the voice of a people who refuse to be silenced. We are more than our suffering — we are resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of a homeland that lives on through us,” she wrote.

Her participation comes at a time when global attention remains fixed on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the Palestinian Ministry of Health reports that over 62,000 people have been killed since the conflict with Israel reignited in October 2023.

Meanwhile, international support for Palestinian statehood continues to grow, with more than 145 countries now recognizing or backing recognition. Recently, Australia, Canada, and France joined the list of nations in support, while the United Kingdom has indicated conditional backing tied to a ceasefire agreement.

Source: Tribune