Internet slams leaders and activists glorifying Aaron Bushnell's self-immolation to protest Gaza genocide

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

WASHINGTON DC, UNITED STATES: Left-wing presidential candidates and activists are reportedly praising US airman Aaron Bushnell who died by suicide over the weekend by burning himself alive outside the Israeli embassy in Washington, DC.

However, it has not gone down well with netizens who are blasting politicians and activists glorifying Aaron Bushnell's self-immolation to protest against the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.

Fire officials and police responded to the scene around 1:00 pm on Sunday, February 25, just moments after 25-year-old Bushnell, who was serving on active duty in the Air Force, livestreamed himself approaching the gate of the embassy, dousing himself with an unknown liquid, setting himself on fire, and yelling "free Palestine" as his body burned.

Who supported Aaron Bushnell? 

When Fox News reached for a comment from former presidential candidate and activist Jill Stein, she said, "This extraordinary sacrifice brings into greater focus the immense horror that our government is committing in our name."

She added, "Aaron Bushnell was very clear that he committed this extreme act to protest our government’s extreme policies that are killing thousands of innocent people in horrific ways. His sacrifice is reminiscent of that of Buddhist monks protesting US-backed oppression of their people in Vietnam. It is truly tragic that the horrific actions of the US and Israel have provoked such a desperate sacrifice."

Additionally, independent presidential candidate Cornel West opined the same, praising Bushnell's "extraordinary courage and commitment" after dying "for truth and justice. " In a post, he said, "I pray for his precious loved ones! Let us rededicate ourselves to genuine solidarity with Palestinians undergoing genocidal attacks in real time!" 

The Democratic Socialists of America wrote, "Aaron’s final words were to reject complicity in the United States’ genocide in Gaza. May his soul rest in peace and may we live to free Palestine within our lifetime."

For context, Bushnell was reportedly "outraged" over the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza.

Internet slam activists and politicians lauding Aaron Bushnell

Several Internet users opined on the activists' and politicians' reactions to Aaron Bushnell's death. One social media user said, "Perhaps they should follow suit to set further example if they’re so impressed by it." Another wrote, "Praising mental illness is not a good thing."

One user asked, "If they care so much, are they going to follow his misguided lead?" Another user even went on to say, "Then they should follow his example."

While a user said, "It's concerning to hear about such an extreme form of protest. While sacrifice for a cause can be lauded, self-immolation is a tragic and extreme action. It's important to address grievances through peaceful and constructive means that promote dialogue and understanding rather than resorting to such drastic measures. Political leaders and activists should encourage avenues for peaceful protest and constructive engagement to address grievances effectively."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.