It really bugs me when people make vague status updates that are obviously calling out someone specific, but give no hints as to what exactly is going on... Oh, wait... shit...
Making your feelings on the subject public won't avoid hurt feelings. If what you said would hurt their feelings, it doesn't matter if it's public or private; in fact, making it public generally makes it worse.
If you want it public for whatever reason, at least give some background :/