“Captain America 4” Stands Firm on Sabra’s Jewish Origin Despite Backlash: “We welcome the portrayal of a strong Jewish and Israeli woman”

Marvel Studios recently unveiled a new trailer for ‘Captain America: Brave New World,’ marking the MCU’s first film centered on Sam Wilson’s Captain America. The trailer sparked a mix of reactions and controversy. Some fans questioned Sam Wilson’s role as a non-supersoldier pitted against Red Hulk. Others criticized the CGI depiction of Red Hulk, but the majority of backlash centered around the inclusion of Sabra.

The controversy surrounding Sabra, a Jewish superhero with ties to Mossad, began upon her announcement for the film. Despite extensive reshoots, which occurred amidst the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the character has not been removed from the movie, further fueling criticism.

Fans were outraged to see Sabra in the trailer, with many threatening to boycott the movie. Despite this, some fans held onto hope that Sabra’s origin might be altered. Her official MCU description portrays her as a former Black Widow who now serves as a close advisor to President Thaddeus Ross. However, critics accused the studio of removing her Israeli origins, as there is no mention of Mossad in her description.

The Wrap recently debunked these claims, reporting that Sabra’s Israeli origin remains unchanged. According to insiders close to the project, her heritage has been preserved. In response to this clarification, the American Jewish Committee expressed relief that Sabra’s Jewish identity is being respected and not altered to conform to current identity politics.

If true, we are glad that Marvel recognized how essential Sabra’s Israeli identity is to her character. Superheroes have enough things to worry about. Identity politics shouldn’t be one of them.

The Anti-Defamation League’s Media & Entertainment Institute also weighed in on the reports, thanking Marvel for not yielding to pressure.

We’re pleased to learn that Sabra will be retaining her Israeli identity in ‘Captain America, Brave New World,’ and is still being portrayed by the wonderful Israeli actress Shira Haas. Marvel Studios should be commended for not capitulating to the anti-Israel forces who wanted this character’s identity quashed, along with her backstory. We welcome the portrayal of a strong Jewish and Israeli woman on screen, and look forward to seeing how this character is developed in the film.

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