In the midst of a controversy involving a gesture Elon Musk made during Donald Trump’s inauguration that many opponents have compared to a Nazi salute, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended Musk. Musk, according to Netanyahu, is a “great friend of Israel” and is being “falsely smeared” in this case.
In his X (formerly Twitter) statement, Netanyahu emphasized Musk’s backing for Israel, especially in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. He pointed out that Musk had travelled to Israel following these incidents and had continuously defended Israel’s right to self-defense. “He has since repeatedly and forcefully supported Israel’s right to defend itself against genocidal terrorists,” Netanyahu said, underscoring Musk’s devotion to Israel via his words and deeds.
When Musk was spotted making a hand gesture during Trump’s inauguration that some saw as a Nazi salute, the issue broke out. Numerous groups, including anti-hate activists and Jewish organizations, have criticized this interpretation. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), however, supported Musk, arguing that the gesture was not a deliberate salute but rather a sign of embarrassing exuberance.
Musk responded to the criticism by dismissing the accusations, saying they are stale and require stronger justifications. On social media, he also humorously made fun of the circumstance. Netanyahu’s defense has drawn criticism for allegedly forming an unsettling partnership with individuals who have been charged with spreading extreme ideologies.
