In a first-of-its-kind occurrence regarding Israeli entry into Arab countries, particularly those classified as resistant nations, Israeli blogger Avi Gold, who is "ultra-orthodox in his Israeli identity," spoke about his "adventures" visiting countries that are hostile to Israel. He previously stirred a limited uproar on Iraqi social media after visiting Baghdad and several Iraqi provinces, including Al-Kifl in Babylon.
Gold stated that he has visited 129 countries, including some that have no diplomatic relations with Israel. He claims that most people he meets are fascinated by his Jewish identity, mentioning that he has defended Israel continuously during discussions with locals in countries he visited, including Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan, in an interview with Israeli Channel 12.
During the interview, Gold mentioned that he has traveled to Iraq multiple times and completed a trip to Saudi Arabia. He also appeared in Tahrir Square in central Baghdad, speaking Hebrew while providing his followers with footage of the scene. He took photos with a Shiite cleric, which caught the attention of Iraqi media and social media, leading to calls for his arrest.
Outrage has emerged within the Islamic Resistance Axis regarding Gold, with resistance channels expressing anger over a Jewish TikToker (Avi Gold) roaming openly in Iraq, taking photos with Shiite imams and Iraqi security forces. Channels affiliated with Iran-backed Shiite militias have reacted strongly.
Gold denied that his travels are intended as provocation or for fame, stating that a thirst for travel drives him to visit these countries, considering it "more exciting" to visit nations that have no relations with or are hostile to Israel. He pointed out that he is "not the only Israeli who has managed to enter such places" and that he has many friends who have undertaken similar trips, explaining that the strategy is to infiltrate these countries through poorly guarded border points, often at night when soldiers are not alert, using the same method to return.
