Politico publishes political cartoon with alleged antisemitic imagery

A political cartoon published by Politico on Friday is drawing criticism online, with some viewers accusing it of using antisemitic imagery in its portrayal of U.S. and Israeli leaders.

The illustration, created by cartoonist Sean Delonas, portrays former President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Republican lawmakers aboard a small boat labeled “Ship of Neocons.” The title appears to reference Ship of Fools, a well-known allegorical painting, a Washington Free Beacon report pointed out.

In the cartoon, the boat is shown heading toward a waterfall, while a sack labeled as money sits atop the mast. The figures are depicted wearing Jewish religious items, including prayer shawls and yarmulkes. The background includes the word “Amalek,” a term from the Hebrew Bible.

Critics on social media and in some political circles argue that parts of the imagery, including the use of religious symbols, portrayals involving money, and physical exaggerations reflect longstanding antisemitic stereotypes. Others on social media have defended the cartoon as political satire aimed at criticizing hawkish foreign policy positions and the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

Politico has not publicly responded to the criticism.