American Airlines has suspended several pilots after they celebrated the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing commentator and ally of US President Donald Trump. This incident has intensified political tensions in the US.
US Secretary of Transport, Sean Duffy, condemned the pilots’ actions, declaring, “This behavior is appalling and warrants termination. Companies responsible for public safety cannot condone such actions. Healing as a nation requires unequivocally rejecting political violence.”
The airline also criticized any form of violence, stating, “Hate or hostility goes against our mission to care for people during their journeys. Such behavior is unacceptable, and we are taking steps to address it within our team.”
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Following Kirk’s assassination, who was a significant figure on the US right, online hostility has surged, exacerbating political divides.
Kirk, known for his pro-gun, anti-abortion, and anti-immigrant views, was both admired and criticized for his influential support of Trump’s re-election campaign.
His murder has been condemned across the political spectrum. Trump, however, swiftly blamed the “radical left,” even as authorities began their search for the assailant.
Online, an Oklahoma teacher faced scrutiny after posting, “Charlie Kirk died as he lived: provoking the worst in people.” The state’s Department of Education is investigating the teacher’s “abhorrent” remark.
‘Disturbing, Unacceptable Comments’
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has instructed military personnel to report any colleagues who mocked or celebrated Kirk’s death.
US Under Secretary of State Christopher Landau warned that foreigners glorifying violence are not welcome in the US. “I am appalled by the social media praise and have instructed consular officials to act accordingly,” he posted on X.
“Please report such foreign comments to me so the @statedept can safeguard the American public.”
Laura Loomer, a prominent far-right figure close to Trump, criticized a FEMA employee who expressed dismay on Instagram at flags being lowered for “the literal racist homophobe misogynist.”
Loomer shared the person’s LinkedIn profile, asserting, “These individuals despise us and should not be near our National Power.”
Following Loomer’s post, FEMA placed the employee on leave for making “disturbing and unacceptable” comments.
(With inputs from AFP)
