In a recent incident, Delta Air Lines is facing backlash after a now-deleted post on its social media account appeared to sympathize with a user's complaint about flight attendants wearing Palestinian flag pins on their uniforms. The post, which has since been removed, sparked controversy and criticism.

The controversy began when a user posted two pictures on Tuesday, showcasing Delta flight attendants wearing the pins, and referred to them as "Hamas badges." The following day, Delta replied to the post, stating, "I hear you as I'd be terrified as well, personally." Screenshots of the deleted response quickly spread on social media, leading to widespread condemnation.

Delta Air Lines issued an apology on Thursday, stating that the post "was not in line with our values and our mission." The airline's spokesperson also revealed that the employee responsible for the post has been counseled and no longer supports Delta's social channels. However, it was not clarified if the employee still works for the airline.

Despite the controversy, Delta expressed its support for the flight attendants involved, confirming that they are still employed by the airline and have received the company's backing. However, in response to the incident, Delta announced a policy change concerning pins on uniforms. Starting from Monday, only U.S. flag pins will be allowed, discontinuing the practice of allowing pins representing countries outside the United States.

The incident drew strong criticism from Palestinian activists, with some social media users vowing to boycott Delta Airlines. Edward Ahmed Mitchell, the national deputy executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), labeled the incident as "anti-Palestinian racism" and expressed hope that it would lead to a shift in awareness.

CAIR, a Muslim civil rights and advocacy group, had previously reported receiving over 8,000 civil rights complaints in 2023, the highest in its 30-year history. Palestinian Americans have been subjected to fear and violence during the Gaza conflict, with their support for civilians in the Gaza Strip sometimes being misconstrued as support for Hamas.

Last year, federal officials acknowledged a surge in threats against Arab, Jewish, and Muslim communities during the Gaza conflict. The conflict intensified when Israel launched a military assault in Gaza after Hamas militants crossed the border into Israel, resulting in a tragic death toll of 1,200 people and the taking of hostages. Over the past nine months, more than 38,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the enclave.

The war in Gaza and the rising death toll have mobilized protests across the United States, including within corporate America. Notably, in April, Google fired 28 employees who publicly protested against the company's contract with the Israeli government.

As Delta Air Lines faces continued scrutiny and calls for accountability, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinian Americans and the vital need for increased awareness and understanding.