"Let them fight it out amongst themselves"- Fans react to UFC veteran's criticism of America's stance on Israel-Palestine war

Fans react to former UFC welterweight world title challenger Jake Shields' recent thoughts on the far-reaching effects of the ongoing Israel-Palestine war. Shields, who last fought under the Professional Fighters League (PFL), has not competed professionally since 2018.

The 45-year-old MMA legend is one of the most recognizable American fighters, proudly wearing his country's flag whenever he enters the cage. He even coined his style of grappling as "American Jiujitsu".

In his recent post on X, however, Jake Shields was highly critical of his country in how its people are handling the current conflict between Israel and Palestine. He cites the ongoing violence of pedestrians in Jerusalem, seemingly motivated by religious beliefs, as a sign that America is wrong for supporting Israel in the war.

Here's his tweet:

"Israel settlers are roaming the streets of Jerusalem attacking Muslims. Jerusalem is supposed to be an international city and doesn't have Hamas. Look at these demons faces and tell me America is on the right side of this war."

Fans are reacting in polarized ways in the comments section, with one X user @TripleA saying:

"Let them fight it out amongst themselves. No more money, no more aid to either side. It's not our business, not our concern. America and our folk FIRST!"

Others, like @dickballxy seemed to be pushing back on the former UFC fighter, saying:

"Demons? Look at yourself in the mirror, bucko. Your eyes have a darkness in them that didn't used to be there. It's kind of spooky."

Here are more fan comments on Jake Shields' tweet:

Comments on the tweet [Image credit: @jakeshieldsajj on X]

---

UFC lightweight world champion Islam Makhachev sent message of support for the people of Gaza

While some fighters are highly critical of the violence happening, some are simply inspiring resilience to those caught in the crossfire. A perfect example is reigning UFC lightweight kingpin, Islam Makhachev, who recently sent out a heartfelt message to his fellow Muslim brothers and sisters in Gaza, Palestine.

Makhachev, who successfully defended his belt for the third consecutive time last weekend at UFC 302, posted on Instagram, saying:

"I would like to send a message from my heart to people Gaza: So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are true believers."

Regardless of which side people are on, this war has divided friends, families, colleagues, teammates, and others in parts of the world outside of Palestine or Israel. This, to say the least, is one of the most horrid effects war can bring to humanity.