Pakistani actress Ushna Shah has drawn widespread debate after expressing sorrow over the death of American political commentator Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead on September 10 while speaking at a Utah university.
Kirk, 31, was known as a staunch conservative and founder of Turning Point USA. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Shah, in an Instagram post, described his killing as “heartbreaking.” She said watching “a man in his early 30s, a husband, a son, a father of two, be shot in cold blood” was devastating, even though she disagreed with his politics.
The actress also reaffirmed her commitment to the Palestinian cause, calling it “the most fundamental cause of our time.”
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Her remarks triggered mixed reactions online. Critics accused her of downplaying controversial record of Kirk, pointing to his hardline stances on immigration, abortion, and Middle East issues.
Some argued her condolences conflicted with her advocacy for Palestine, while others saw her comments as a humanitarian response.
Shah later issued a clarification, stating: “I disagreed with Charlie Kirk, especially on Falasteen. Recognizing suffering, even when you disagree with someone’s politics, is about humanity, not politics.”
The episode gained traction on social media and was reported widely in Pakistani outlets. Analysts say the incident highlights the delicate line public figures walk when responding to global events, particularly when political identities and humanitarian principles collide.