Overview

• Seinfeld said the phrase “Free Palestine” masks antisemitism and argued the Ku Klux Klan is “a little better” for stating its hatred openly.
• He made the remarks during a brief, unannounced introduction of former Israeli hostage Omer Shem Tov at a student-led event.
• Duke University said it does not preview or endorse outside speakers’ remarks and noted the appearance was kept off announcements at Seinfeld’s request.
• Student organizations including Duke Students for Justice in Palestine, the Muslim Student Association, Sunrise Duke and the Jewish Solidarity Movement condemned the comments as offensive and harmful.
• Representatives for Seinfeld declined or did not immediately respond to requests for comment as national coverage expanded.