Leonardo DiCaprio faces backlash for co-financing luxury hotel in Israel

Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio is under fire for reportedly co-financing a new luxury hotel near Tel Aviv, Israel.

According to Israeli business newspaper Globes, the Tel Aviv District Planning and Building Committee has approved the construction of the 51,000 square metre project. The Jerusalem Post also reports that the eco-certified resort at Herzliya Marina Hotel will consist of 14 floors and 365 rooms.  

DiCaprio, who is currently a United Nations Messenger for Peace, will hold a 10 per cent stake in the project, with the remaining shares divided between The Hagag Group and brothers Ahikam and Lior Cohen.

Announced in March 2018, the project was originally planned to have 180 suites spread across two six-storey buildings, but has since expanded significantly. The complex will also include a conference centre, a fine dining restaurant and retail spaces, designed by Rani Zeese Architects.

The move has made headlines due to the country’s ongoing conflict in Gaza, and has garnered much criticism online.

Author and activist Shaun King took to X to criticise DiCaprio, writing: “While Gaza Starves, Leonardo DiCaprio Is Building a 14-Story Luxury Hotel in Israel” and accusing him of “profiting from apartheid during a genocide”. 

Other online users did not hold back:  

DiCaprio has previously been involved in several projects in Israel, including investments in Mobli, a social media startup, and Aleph Farms, a farmed meat company.

The actor has yet to comment on the criticism he has received.