Twitter reacts to video reportedly showing Saudi woman hitting harasser

The hashtag #GirlHitsHarasser is trending in Arabic on twitter after a video reportedly showing a Saudi Arabian woman slapping her supposed harasser in public went viral.

The video captures the aftermath of the incident where the woman smacks the alleged harasser in what appears to be a busy Saudi street.

Many internet users have slammed the man on Twitter for his actions and expressed solidarity and support for the apparent harassment victim and her reaction.

Translation: ... A man harasses a woman in front of a mall. Her reaction was a slap in the face #GirlHitsHarasser

"What will these women understand!"

However, not everyone who took to social media defended the supposed victim. Some Saudis asserted that women should stay at home to avoid such unwanted approaches.

Translation: If she had stayed in her hoouse, she wouldn't be hit or have to hit anyone, and no one would have harassed her ... When will these women understand!

"My Personal Freedom"

Many used the controversy as an opportunity to highlight the importance of consent and to stress women's right to be in public without being harassed.

Translation: #WomanHitsHarasser Whether I wear an abaya or not, you do not have the right to harass (me). Do not justify your animalistic instincts with (blaming) my personal freedom.

Translation: I am bewildered by those who are saying that if she were covered or if she were accompanied by a  man (mahram), this would not have happened! Either way, she has the right to wear what she wants and you do not have the right to harass (her)!

"That's my girl"

Some online comments voiced pride and encouragement for the alleged victim and all women who strike back against harassment. 

While others criticised those who may try to place the blame on women.

This video is receiving attention after more than 14,000 Saudi women signed a petition sent to King Salman on Monday calling for an end to the kingdom’s guardianship system, which requires women to have male permission for basic civic activities, including traveling and opening a bank account.

This article is available in French on Middle East Eye French edition.