Clavicular takes on Tel Aviv, dividing pro-Israel influencers over his record of antisemitism

The presence of influencer Braden Peters, also known as Clavicular, in Tel Aviv has sparked significant controversy, dividing pro-Israel online communities. Peters, known for his "looksmaxxing" content, has a documented history of associating with white supremacists like Nick Fuentes and participating in antisemitic acts, including singing "Heil Hitler."

While some Israeli and Jewish influencers have welcomed Peters, seeking to tap into his large online following, others have vehemently denounced his visit. Aaron Morali, an Israeli influencer, alerted beach club staff upon recognizing Peters, stating he quickly understood Peters was not a supporter of Israel. Peters was subsequently asked to leave the club.

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We thought maybe he was a big influencer supporting Israel. But we very quickly understood that he wasn’t.

Despite these incidents, Peters has received a warm reception elsewhere in Tel Aviv, with crowds gathering as he livestreams from beaches and nightclubs. This has bewildered some of his own followers, who have accused him of "selling out" and mocked his embrace of Israel.

Peters' visit has also highlighted a rift within the pro-Israel influencer sphere. Some see an opportunity to connect with his audience, especially at a time when Israel is often perceived as a pariah. Conversely, others, like Orthodox Jewish influencer Golda Daphna, have criticized Peters for his objectifying comments about Israeli women and for the willingness of some to overlook his antisemitic past. The Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism declined to comment on Peters' entry into Israel, despite the country's stated policy of denying entry to figures with antisemitic records.

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I am not sorry. I don’t apologize for what I did. I would do it again today.