Was it a Nazi salute? Musk draws backlash over hand gesture at Trump inauguration

Elon Musk’s appearance at a Trump rally this afternoon has sparked widespread online discussion due to a gesture some have compared to a Nazi salute.

The incident occurred as Musk expressed gratitude to supporters for contributing to Trump’s victory. He placed his right hand over his heart before extending the same arm straight ahead.

“My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured,” Musk stated during his remarks.

The gesture has drawn criticism on X, the social media platform Musk owns, with several users likening it to a Nazi salute. In response, Musk dismissed the allegations, posting on X: “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”

While some users on the platform defended Musk, suggesting the gesture was simply an expression of gratitude, others criticized his actions and comments.

Musk has also faced scrutiny for his support of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has been classified as right-wing extremist by German security services. Earlier this month, Musk hosted a broadcast with the party’s leader on his platform ahead of Germany’s upcoming national election.