New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh sparked controversy over wearing the Lebanese flag on his arm in the wake of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah, which has a stronghold in south Beirut, Lebanon’s capital city.
Saleh, 45, the son of Lebanese immigrants, had previously worn a similar patch last October and was spotted with the flag again on his hoodie sleeve during his team’s loss in London on Sunday (October 6). The Hezbollah was reportedly hit by more than 30 strikes overnight, according to Lebanon’s official National News Agency.
Several NFL fans noticed the patch and shared criticism, specifically noting New York’s populated Jewish community.
“I am not sure that Robert Saleh wearing the Lebanese Flag, which he obviously added on his own, is going to help with his ownership as his team gets embarrassed again,” an X user wrote during the Jets’ loss.
Several others sided with Saleh’s decision.
“I’m Jewish but come on he’s from Lebanon and seeing the country of his ancestors at war. I can support Israel and understand this too,” one user wrote.
Saleh’s parents, Sam and Fatin, emigrated from Lebanon to the United States prior to his birth in Dearborn, Michigan. The 45-year-old has gone 20-36 during four seasons as the Jets’ head coach.
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