Marvel Studios has unveiled a major update to the backstory of Sabra, the Israeli superhero set to appear in the upcoming “Captain America: Brave New World.” Originally depicted as a Mossad agent in the comic books, Sabra will now be portrayed as “a high-ranking U.S. government official” in the film. This change comes after Israeli actress Shira Haas was cast in the role two years ago, sparking mixed reactions.
The reimagined character was showcased in a new trailer released on Friday, revealing more about the updated Sabra. Notably, the announcement omitted any reference to her former role as a Mossad agent, a move that has ignited controversy. Israeli newspaper Haaretz headlined, “‘Sabra’ Superhero in Marvel’s ‘Captain America’ Stripped of Israeliness Amid pro-Palestinian Backlash,” while The Jerusalem Post reported, “Marvel removes Jewish superhero Sabra’s Israeli identity for new Captain America movie.”
Marvel Faces Backlash
The American Jewish Committee expressed its disapproval on social media, stating, “Marvel’s decision to strip the Israeli identity of Sabra is a betrayal of the character’s creators and fans and a capitulation to intimidation. Sabra is a proud Israeli hero and should be portrayed as such. Taking away such a central part of her identity would be like making Captain America Canadian.”
The film’s depiction of Sabra, whose alter ego is Ruth Bat-Seraph, leaves it unclear if she retains any Israeli origins. The term “Sabra” refers to a native Israeli and a local cactus bush. Shira Haas appears briefly in the new trailer, but Marvel has declined to comment further.
This decision comes amid criticism from Palestinians and their supporters, who argued that the original portrayal glorified Israel. The hashtag #CaptainApartheid trended on social media in response.
The reimagining of Sabra follows heightened scrutiny after recent conflicts, including Hamas’s attack in southern Israel on October 7 and the subsequent war in Gaza. Fans and critics alike are watching closely to see how Marvel, owned by Disney, handles this character in the context of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
