Marvel Studio’s new Israeli superhero film hits a raw nerve with Arabs

Sabra is no hero to Palestinians who say her appearance in an upcoming Marvel film glorifies violence against Arabs and Muslims.

Sabra, an Israeli superhero with a Star of David emblazoned on her chest, made numerous appearances in Marvel's comics, starring alongside top icons such as the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man and the X-Men.

More than 40 years after Sabra was introduced, Disney's Marvel plans to bring her to film in Captain America: New World Order, set to be released in 2024. 

Shira Haas has been cast in the role, exciting Israelis who will see one of their favourite stars in a Disney feature.

But the revival of Sabra has created an uproar among those who fear it will spread offensive stereotypes about Arabs and the dehumanisation of Palestinians in cinema.

Critics say many of the Arab characters Sabra interacted with in the comics are shown as misogynistic, antisemitic and violent, and are questioning whether the troubling portrayals of Arabs will play out differently in the film.

Others used the character to attack Israel’s treatment of Palestinians in the Occupied Territories.

“Israel’s Marvel superhero Sabra has many powers, including demolishing Palestinian homes with her mind and assassinating Palestinian children with her laser beam eyes,” tweeted one.

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Disney’s new Israeli superhero film hits a raw nerve with Arabs (CNN)

Marvel Studios Suffers Backlash for Adding Israeli Superheroine Sabra to 'Captain America' Film
Some say the decision by Marvel Studios to include an Israeli heroine played by Israeli actress Shira Haas in the next 'Captain America' movie is insulting to Palestinians

How Marvel's Israeli superhero Sabra may prove a headache for the comic book franchise (Middle East Eye)
The Israeli superhero first appeared in Incredible Hulk in the 80s, where she was a Mossad agent, and will be cast in the new Captain America movie

Excitement, and backlash, quickly follow news of Marvel’s Sabra superhero arrival (Times of Israel)
Set for release in 2024, new film to feature Israeli actress Shira Haas as Sabra, an Israeli hero who debuted with a cameo in a 1980 ‘Incredible Hulk’ comic

Image: Sabra, the Israeli superhero in the new Marvel movie (Marvel)