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Elon Musk Criticized for Gesturing Similar to Nazi Salute After Trump Inauguration

American President Donald Trump’s inauguration has sparked controversy, particularly after tech billionaire Elon Musk made a gesture during his speech that some have likened to the infamous German Nazi salute.

Musk, speaking to Trump supporters shortly after the Republican’s 47th presidential swearing-in, described the November 4th U.S. presidential election results as an extraordinary victory. While addressing the crowd at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C., Musk thanked Americans by raising his right arm with his palm down, fingers together, and his arm extended upward in the air, striking a pose that drew comparisons to the Nazi salute.

The CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who was later appointed to lead a government performance agency under Trump’s administration, repeated the gesture once more after turning to face the crowd. His controversial salute quickly gained attention on social media, where many users accused Musk of mimicking Adolf Hitler’s notorious “Heil Hitler” salute.

British journalist and commentator Owen Jones commented on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Honestly, this (Elon Musk’s salute) couldn’t look more like the Nazi salute.” Similarly, Israeli media criticized Musk, with Haaretz, a prominent Israeli newspaper, describing the gesture as resembling the “Roman salute,” often associated with Nazi Germany and fascism.

**Musk’s Defense: A Moment of Enthusiasm, Not a Nazi Salute**

Despite the backlash, some, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which is one of the leading organizations fighting anti-Semitism, defended Musk. They stated that Musk made the gesture in a moment of excitement and it was not intended as a Nazi salute. The ADL posted on X saying, “In this moment, all parties should show some goodwill towards each other and perhaps take a deep breath, giving the benefit of the doubt.”

They also expressed hopes for healing and progress towards unity in the coming months and years, calling for understanding amidst the controversy.

Musk’s political leanings have become more apparent as he has shifted rightward, notably offering his full support to Trump last July after the former president survived an assassination attempt. Earlier this month, Musk also expressed support for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) leader, Alice Weidel, ahead of the country’s national elections, even interviewing her on his social media platform, X.

As Musk’s political affiliations continue to attract attention, this controversial moment further fuels debates about his stance and the impact of his actions on both American and international politics.

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