US Senate Race Ignites Over Anti-Israel Ad Linking Gaza Aid to Grocery Prices

A political advertisement in Michigan, referencing Israel and the Gaza war, has sparked controversy during a tight US Senate race. The ad depicts a couple struggling to afford groceries, with the wife suggesting they save seven dollars "to kill Palestinians" by cutting back on eggs and bananas. The ad, created by Rebellion PAC, founded by critic of Israel Jenke Uyghur, reappeared in Michigan a week before the midterm elections. It supports progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed against Republican Mike Rogers. Uyghur posted the ad on social media, stating, "We have to suffer here at home so Israel can fight all its wars." He accused Rogers of serving Israel's interests over those of his constituents. Jewish organizations and public figures condemned the ad, calling it antisemitic and a scapegoat for American economic woes. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt labeled it "a textbook example of antisemitism." Brianna Wu, a co-founder of Uyghur's organization, distanced herself from the ad, stating she would have resigned if asked to create it. Uyghur denied the accusations, claiming his critics equate any disagreement with US funding for Israel to antisemitism. El-Sayed's campaign distanced itself from the ad, stating it did not represent the candidate, but did not directly condemn its content or alleged antisemitic messages. El-Sayed himself has previously accused Israel of "genocide" and called for an end to US aid. The race for the Michigan Senate seat is a key contest. Rogers has accused El-Sayed of ties to the Muslim Brotherhood. President Donald Trump has also attacked El-Sayed, mispronouncing his name and linking him to the Muslim Brotherhood, despite a lack of evidence. Trump urged Jewish voters to be ashamed if they supported El-Sayed, while hundreds of Michigan Jews have publicly backed him. El-Sayed responded to Trump's attacks, suggesting Trump is more concerned with Saudi and Qatari investments than with his name, and that after the election, Trump can call him "Senator Muhammad."