Hasan Piker discusses use of incendiary language in interview

Twitch streamer Hasan Piker defended his use of terms such as "inbred" and "Zionist pig" against opponents during an interview with NPR on Thursday. NPR host Leila Fadel inquired about the backlash Piker has faced, questioning whether it was related to his comments or his background. Piker acknowledged his use of incendiary language but suggested that much of the backlash was due to his identity. He stated, "Of course, I, you know, say incendiary things, but it's not reflected on in the same way when someone who's White, Christian, born and raised in America is saying incendiary things." Fadel further asked why someone who has felt dehumanized would use dehumanizing language against Jewish opponents. Piker responded, "I have a policy to be ruthless to those who are bullying others, to be ruthless to those who abide by certain ideologies that are conducting great harm." He explained that he uses terms like "inbred" as a pejorative towards ideologies he opposes, including ethno-supremacist and neo-Nazi ideologies. Piker emphasized that his language is not meant to be taken literally and is directed at actions or belief systems rather than individuals' backgrounds. The Israeli-American Council (IAC) condemned Piker's comments, stating, "The Jewish people know what happens when hatred becomes acceptable." The IAC referenced historical persecution of Jews and the recent violence perpetrated by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Fox News Digital attempted to contact Piker for further comment but did not receive a response. Piker was previously banned from Twitch for using the phrase "Zionist pig" and has faced criticism from some Democrats for his statements regarding Israel and American Jews.