The global anti-Israel movement, led by BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) and other pro-Palestinian groups, is calling for a boycott of Disney and Marvel’s upcoming film Captain America: Brave New World. This film features the Israeli superhero Sabra, played by Ruth Bat Seraph.

The controversy began on July 12, when Marvel released the first teaser for the film, set to hit theaters next February. In this teaser, Sabra is portrayed as a “high-ranking US government official” rather than her original comic book role as a Mossad agent. This change came after Marvel faced criticism upon announcing Sabra’s inclusion in the movie. Sabra, introduced in the 1980s Hulk comics, is being reimagined, with Marvel studios stating they are “taking a new approach to the character.”

While pro-Israel factions have criticized this new portrayal, pro-Palestinian groups have also expressed their disapproval. In a social media post, BDS declared, “Palestinians call for intensifying pressure on Disney and Marvel to drop anti-Palestinian character.” They also urged a boycott of Disney+ subscriptions, Marvel merchandise, and all screenings of Captain America: Brave New World, adding, “Disney’s superficial changes to the character cannot erase its decades-long complicity in Israeli propaganda.”

The BDS post highlighted that “By reviving this racist character in any form, Marvel is promoting Israel’s brutal oppression of Palestinians.”

 

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Criticism also extends to the casting of Shira Haas, who has a history with the Israeli military. Despite being exempted from service due to a childhood illness, Haas volunteered for the IDF Military Band and theatre unit. BDS and other critics argue that “The character has long glorified violence against Palestinians, working for the Israeli government and military, which are now annihilating Palestinians in Gaza.”

Social media users have voiced their opinions as well. One user on X shared, “(Marvel) has announced the character on the 40th anniversary of the event. BDS are calling for a boycott. Don’t watch.” Another user posted, “Just a reminder now that a new Deadpool & Wolverine trailer was released that Marvel is being boycotted just like McDonald’s and Starbucks because the next Captain America movie is going to have an Israeli superhero, Sabra, played by a literal IDF soldier, Shira Haas.”

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