Mia Khalifa has become a sensation in the adult entertainment industry. The 21-year-old has been ranked number one by website PornHub. However, her popularity has triggered outrage in Middle East and has led to unrest amongst the natives.

"They (natives) are upset and offended by her work, especially because she often boasts of her Lebanese heritage on Twitter and Instagram, posting photographs of her Arabic tattoo that reads 'Koullouna lil-watan, lil'oula lil-'alam'," stated Lebanese Examiner in its report.

She also sports a tattoo of a cross on her wrist, which is a symbol of an infamous Lebanese group. She reportedly thinks that she is free to support any political organisation and can get her body inked in any which way she wants. The actress has come under fire after several Beirut-based newspapers revealed the photographs of her tattoos.

Mia has also received death threats and it is being said that her popularity could mean more harm than good. The actress has been working in the adult film industry for more than three months now. She lives in Miami, Florida and has described herself as "unofficial mascot of the Florida State Seminoles and a pornstar in the off-season," on her Twitter account. Post the outrage, Mia took to Twitter to defend herself and said that there are more glaring issues facing the country than to worry about her. The actress is seemingly unfazed by the criticism and she seems to have taken hatred in her stride. Apart from being criticised, the actress is also getting some support.

Beirut-based blogger Gino Raidy applauded Mia for gaining popularity in the porn industry. He thinks it is commendable that a Lebanese has become the biggest name in the porn industry when "ultra-conservative Arab counterparts are banning porn sites." He admitted that everyone has the right to choose his or her own career and Mia can do whatever she wants with her body, according to Huffington Post. Meanwhile, Lebanon is considered as one of the most liberal countries in the Middle East. However, adult films or anything pertaining to is condemned throughout the region.

Contact:s.singh@ibtimes.com.au