The conservative news website The Daily Wire has severed its relationship with Candace Owens, a move announced following a dispute between Owens and the site’s co-founder, Ben Shapiro, over her comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Owens, a far-right commentator known for her controversial views, had been with The Daily Wire since joining in 2021 but encountered friction with Shapiro, particularly over her stance on US funding of Israel’s actions in Gaza and remarks interpreted by some as referencing genocide.

The conflict between Owens and Shapiro became public through exchanges on Twitter, where Owens criticized Shapiro’s response to her comments as unprofessional and emotionally unhinged. She further addressed these criticisms during an appearance on Tucker Carlson’s show, accusing Shapiro of ad hominem attacks.

Owens announced her departure on social media, stating, “The rumors are true – I am finally free,” and indicated plans to continue her show on YouTube after taking a brief hiatus. Her criticisms of US support for Israel, including controversial comments about “political Jews” and allegations of using Jewish identity as a shield, elicited strong criticism from Shapiro, among others.

The split underscores broader tensions within conservative circles, particularly regarding perspectives on international conflicts like the war in Gaza. Despite the acrimonious departure, Owens commended The Daily Wire for allowing a range of opinions but expressed a wish for more respectful discourse among colleagues.

The Anti-Defamation League expressed concerns after Owens liked a social media post with antisemitic implications. She has also been linked to Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes, though she denies any association and has defended her position against taxpayer funding for foreign military interventions.

Representatives for both The Daily Wire and Owens have not made additional comments on the matter. This incident highlights the challenge of managing divergent viewpoints within media outlets and the complexities of maintaining professionalism amidst public disagreements.