Hasan Piker, a Twitch streamer, has defended his use of incendiary terms such as "inbred" and "Zionist pig" in a recent interview with NPR.
Piker acknowledged that his language is often provocative, but suggested that the backlash he faces is largely due to his background. He claimed that when individuals who are White, Christian, and American use similar language, it is not viewed as negatively. "Of course, I say incendiary things, but it's not reflected on in the same way when someone who's White, Christian, born and raised in America is saying incendiary things," Piker said.
NPR host Leila Fadel asked Piker why someone who has felt dehumanized would choose to use dehumanizing language, particularly against Jewish opponents. Piker responded that he uses such language to describe right-wing reactionary ideologies, ethno-supremacist ideologies, and neo-Nazi ideologies. He argued that these ideologies often revolve around ethnic and racial purity, and that using pejorative language is an effective way to criticize them.
Piker also claimed that he applies the same principle to the term "pig" and uses similar language for different targets regardless of their background. He added that he gets frustrated and angry when discussing these issues, and that his language is a way of communicating his frustration.
The Israeli-American Council (IAC) has condemned Piker's comments, stating that the Jewish people know what happens when hatred becomes acceptable. The IAC referenced the Holocaust and the recent Hamas attacks on Israel, highlighting the consequences of antisemitic hatred.
Piker has faced backlash for his comments in the past, including a seven-day ban from Twitch in January for using the phrase "Zionist pig." He has also repeatedly criticized Zionism and Israel, and has warned American Jews that they could face violence if they continue to support Israel.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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