Elon Musk: Billionaire’s ‘Nazi’ salute raises several eyebrows

WASHINGTON: Controversial billionaire, Elon Musk, received swift and considerable criticism after making a gesture perceived by many as a Nazi salute, during a speech at the Capitol Hill Arena in the United States.

The proprietor of X (formerly Twitter) enthusiastically made gestures resembling the Nazi salute, the Sieg Heil.

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Musk raised his right hand in a distinctive manner toward the sky, suspiciously resembling a Nazi salute. Netizens were quick to take to social media and other online platforms.

In his address, Elon Musk enthused about the possible human exploration of Mars and symbolism of planting a US flag.

While Musk’s speech might not have directly talked about fascism or Nazism, the fact he gestured twice did not go unnoticed by many.

Supporters were quick to draw comparisons to the “Roman salute”, used by Ancient Rome soldiers to symbolise loyalty and respect.

Right wing extremists celebrated his Nazi salute online, with many supporting Musk’s gesture.

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Musk has also aligned himself with far right groups across Europe, including support for the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.