Nikki Haley, the former U.S. presidential hopeful, is under fire for writing “Finish Them” on an Israeli shell during a visit to the northern border with Lebanon. The incident, captured in a photograph posted on X by Israeli parliament member Danny Danon, has sparked widespread condemnation.
Social media outrage
Social media erupted after the image of Haley kneeling and writing on the shell with a purple marker went viral. One user angrily suggested, “I support DEPORTING NIKKI HALEY to her ancestral homeland of India.” Another wrote, “Shame on her existence, she is evil!” highlighting the provocative nature of her message amid ongoing violence.
White House’s response
Despite the uproar, the White House maintains its current Israel policy. President Joe Biden, while acknowledging the suffering of Palestinian civilians, has no plans to alter his stance following the recent deadly strike on Rafah.
Haley’s political future
Haley, who withdrew from the 2024 presidential race after losing to Donald Trump in the Republican primaries, has expressed support for Trump and remains a potential candidate for the 2028 election.
Conflict background
The Gaza conflict escalated after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, resulting in 1,189 deaths and 252 hostages, with 121 still held in Gaza. Israel’s retaliatory strikes have killed at least 36,096 people in Gaza, primarily civilians, according to local health authorities.