California hotel staffer claims firing after confronting Israeli guests

A former staffer at the Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria, California, claims he was fired after confronting Israeli guests and posting a video of the exchange. The staffer, who identified himself as Ryan Smith on a GoFundMe page, stated in an Instagram post that he told the guests "free Palestine."

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Are you a baby killer?

The confrontation escalated when one of the guests, an Israeli woman, challenged his objectivity. Smith then questioned if her partner had served in the IDF and asked, "Are you a baby killer?" The Israeli man stated he refused to engage further, but his partner expressed concern about their safety at the hotel.

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I won't stay here, certainly he'll break into our room and do something.

Smith claimed the woman threatened to call the police, accusing him of being part of a "pedo[phile] regime." He later launched a fundraiser, stating he was "let go" from his job and seeking donations. As of Sunday morning, he had raised over $11,000.

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The events in the video do not reflect the professionalism and hospitality that our team members are trained to deliver to all our valued guests.

The Oceanpoint Ranch, however, stated that Smith had "unilaterally resigned" after the hotel began an investigation. The hotel emphasized that the incident did not align with their commitment to professionalism and a respectful environment for all guests and employees.

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Our team remains committed to fostering a respectful environment for all of our guests, employees, and community.