Netanyahu Defends Elon Musk after accusations that the Tesla CEO made a racist gesture during President Donald Trump’s inaugural rally in Washington, D.C. Netanyahu dismissed the claims as baseless, commending Musk for his steadfast support of Israel.
In a statement posted on social media platform X on January 23, Netanyahu called the allegations a smear campaign. He highlighted Musk’s visit to Israel after the October 7 Hamas attacks, where over 1,400 Israelis were killed, marking the deadliest assault on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Netanyahu praised Musk’s advocacy for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas and other threats.
“Elon Musk is being falsely smeared. Elon is a great friend of Israel,” Netanyahu wrote. “He has since repeatedly and forcefully supported Israel’s right to defend itself against genocidal terrorists and regimes who seek to annihilate the one and only Jewish state.”
The remarks came in response to Musk’s own sarcastic comment about the allegations. Musk mocked what he referred to as “radical leftists” who accused him of being a Nazi, while simultaneously expressing support for Hamas.
Musk, now leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump’s administration, has faced increased scrutiny from political opponents. Critics suggest that the recent allegations against him may be politically motivated retaliation.
Netanyahu concluded his defense of Musk by thanking the entrepreneur for his continued advocacy and support of Israel amidst ongoing challenges in the region.
