Jerry Seinfeld compares Free Palestine movement to the KKK
- During an event at Duke University, Jerry Seinfeld controversially commented on the Free Palestine movement.
- He compared the movement to the Ku Klux Klan, suggesting both express antisemitic sentiments.
- Seinfeld's remarks sparked significant reactions and highlighted the contentious political environment surrounding the Israel-Palestine issue.
In October 2023, comedian Jerry Seinfeld made controversial remarks regarding the Free Palestine movement during an event at Duke University in the United States. Seinfeld's comments were delivered at a gathering where he introduced Omer Shem Tov, an Israeli who was a hostage of Hamas for over a year. During his speech, Seinfeld derided activists supporting the Free Palestine movement, claiming that the phrase masks antisemitic sentiments. He argued that openly expressing dislike for Jews was more honest than what he perceived as the disguised language of the movement. This comparison invoked the Ku Klux Klan, which he claimed was more forthright in their prejudices, criticizing the way the Free Palestine slogan was perceived as an indirect way of expressing antisemitism. The event notably had a mixed reception from the student body, with several anti-Israel protesters chanting during Seinfeld's remarks, showcasing the polarized views on the topic of Palestine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Duke University administration distanced itself from Seinfeld's statements, asserting that they do not endorse comments made by outside speakers. This event reflects the current climate of debate surrounding Israel and Palestine on college campuses, highlighting the intersection of comedy, free speech, and political discussions in a charged environment.