The worldwide intifada movement, which aims to dismantle Israel, is experiencing public divisions for the first time. Palestinian-American activist Nerdeen Kiswani has accused Jewish American actor Jacob Berger of being a sexual predator and exploiting the movement for personal gain.
Kiswani detailed nine allegations against Berger on the X social media platform, claiming that he has monetized his activism, harassed female activists, and made Arab women feel uncomfortable. Berger denied these allegations in a video response, calling them a “personal vendetta.”
Despite these accusations, Berger has gained popularity within the anti-Israel scene since Hamas invaded Israel on October 7, 2023. He has been seen with prominent figures such as Cornel West, Norman Finkelstein, and Rashida Tlaib, among others. However, none of these figures have commented on Kiswani’s claims.
Berger, who previously worked in mental health and substance abuse counseling, changed career paths to become an actor and social media creator. He had launched an OnlyFans account for adult content before shifting his focus to advocating for Palestine after the invasion. This transition has brought him both fame and controversy within the anti-Israel movement.
Kiswani’s allegations shed light on the complex dynamics of the anti-Israel movement, exposing internal conflicts and issues of exploitation. Berger’s journey from an unconventional content creator to a prominent figure in the activism scene reflects the evolving nature of social media influence and political advocacy. During interactions with Palestinians and on social media livestreams, the focus has been around the individual, highlighting personal struggles, censorship, and sacrifice of fame, all while seemingly profiting from a tragic situation. Jacob Berger, known for his controversial content, has been involved in anti-Israel protests, often sharing explicit material involving women. Despite this, he continues to gain a following and attention on social media platforms.
Berger has been seen wearing a checkered keffiyeh, a symbol of the global intifada, during protests alongside Nerdeen Kiswani, a prominent figure in the movement for Palestinian rights. Kiswani has been vocal about her views, advocating for the fall of Israel and rejecting the idea of two states. Her organization, “Within Our Lifetime,” offers resources for organizing rallies and supporting the Palestinian cause.
Despite allegations and controversies surrounding Berger’s actions, he remains active in charity work, including raising funds for orphans and single mothers from Gaza. Kiswani has criticized Berger for his behavior, accusing him of exploiting vulnerable communities for personal gain. However, Berger denies these claims, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust in charitable causes.
As the situation unfolds, both Berger and Kiswani continue to be scrutinized for their actions and statements. The focus remains on the need for genuine support and solidarity in the fight for Palestinian rights, rather than self-promotion or exploitation. Through social media posts and public appearances, both individuals remain under the spotlight, facing criticism and backlash from various sources. In the middle of June, he commemorated Iranian air strikes against Israel. By mid-July, now on a new voyage of the “Freedom Flotilla,” he engaged in a debate with TV host Piers Morgan regarding the alleged “kidnapping” of Thurnberg by Israeli officials. Last week, upon returning from his own unsuccessful mission of the “Freedom Flotilla,” adorned with “GAZA” on his military green t-shirt and a kefiyyeh draped over his shoulders, activists greeted him in the arrivals lounge at JFK International Airport, chanting his name. “Protests in the street are not enough,” he mentioned to a cameraman. “One day we will see Falasteen free, Inshallah,” he added, using the Arabic term for “God willing.” “Inshallah,” the cameraman replied. Shortly after, Kiswani accused Berger of being a grifter and sexual predator, while another critic accused him of supporting Zionism, referring to him as “a Zio in Kefiyeah [sic].”
