Climate activist Greta Thunberg faced criticism on social media for sharing a photo that many deemed anti-Semitic and for advocating support for organizations that some perceive as hostile to Israel while posing alongside pro-Palestinian activists.
In her post, Thunberg said, “Week 270,” and expressed solidarity with Palestine and Gaza, urging the world to demand an immediate ceasefire, justice, and freedom for Palestinians and all affected civilians. Her message resonated with statements made by Hamas, an Islamic terrorist group, during their recent attacks on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 Israelis.
The individuals in the photo held signs with slogans like “Free Palestine” and “Climate Justice Now!” Thunberg’s sign read “Stand With Gaza.” “Climate Justice Now!” is associated with far-left calls to decolonize lands, particularly in the context of Israel.
Notably, an observant journalist pointed out that the presence of a light blue stuffed octopus in the photo could be interpreted as referencing anti-Semitic imagery that has historically targeted Jewish people and Israel.
Thunberg subsequently deleted the post and issued another claiming she was unaware of any potential anti-Semitic connotations regarding the stuffed octopus and the context of supporting individuals involved in recent terrorist attacks against Israel.
In a follow-up tweet, she defended the use of the stuffed animal, stating that it is employed by autistic individuals as a means of expressing their emotions.
Greta Thunberg has faced prior controversy, such as wearing a shirt expressing support for far-left Antifa extremists, which she later claimed to be unaware of its meaning and distanced herself from supporting violence. Additionally, she previously advocated for political opponents to be “put against the wall.”
Thunberg eventually reposted her tweet with a different photo and encouraged her followers to support various organizations. Some of these organizations have been criticized for their alleged anti-Semitic stances and support for the elimination of Israel.
One of her Instagram supporters expressed their disappointment, accusing Thunberg of being pro-terrorism and failing to condemn organizations like Hamas and Jihad for their involvement in acts of violence against innocent civilians.