For the first time in history, Palestine will have a representative at the Miss Universe pageant, as beauty queen Nadeen Ayoub has been confirmed to compete in the 2025 edition.
The Miss Universe Organization announced on Sunday that Ayoub will participate in the upcoming competition, set for November.
“The Miss Universe Organization proudly welcomes delegates from across the globe, celebrating diversity, cultural exchange, and the empowerment of women,” the statement reads.
It added, “Ms. Ayoub, an accomplished advocate and model from Palestine, embodies the resilience and determination that define our platform.”
Ayoub will join delegates from over 130 countries and territories at the 74th Miss Universe final, scheduled for November 21 in Bangkok, Thailand.
“We look forward to welcoming Ms. Ayoub on the Miss Universe stage, where she will proudly represent Palestine, standing alongside contestants from every corner of the world,” MUO said.
The 27-year-old Ayoub was crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, according to Abu Dhabi-based outlet The National.
On Instagram last Thursday, she emphasized her desire to give a voice to the Palestinian people.
“I am honored to announce that for the first time ever, Palestine will be represented at Miss Universe,” she wrote.
She continued, “As Palestine endures heartbreak, especially in Gaza, I carry the voice of a people who refuse to be silenced. I represent every Palestinian woman and child whose strength the world needs to see.”
Ayoub added, “We are more than our suffering — we are resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of a homeland that lives on through us.”
Her participation comes amid mounting international scrutiny of Israel’s war in Gaza. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, at least 62,004 people have died in the conflict since it began in October 2023.
While Gaza authorities do not separate civilians from Hamas fighters in casualty reports, the ministry and the United Nations note that most victims are women and children.
The conflict has spurred a growing push for international recognition of a Palestinian state, with over 145 countries supporting the effort. Recently, Australia, Canada, and France announced plans to recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. The United Kingdom has said it may recognize the state if Israel meets certain conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza.