AFP Fact Check confirms Chris Evans did not sign an Israeli Bomb in resurfaced photo

Chris Evans, widely recognized for his role as Captain America, recently addressed a controversy surrounding a resurfaced photo that some believed depicted him signing an Israeli bomb.

Taking to his Instagram Story on Thursday, Evans set the record straight, explaining the true nature of the image that had sparked widespread speculation.

“There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding this picture,” Evans stated.

“Some clarification: This image was taken during a USO tour in 2016. I went with a group of actors, athletes, and musicians to show our appreciation for our service members. The object I was asked to sign was not a bomb, or a missile, or a weapon of any kind. It’s an inert object used for training or display purposes only.”

The photo in question captured Evans signing a missile-shaped object, alongside a US Air Force officer.

Initially, some social media users and figures like John Cusack speculated that the object was an active bomb related to military actions in Gaza, leading to significant backlash.

However, AFP Fact Check confirmed that the photo was indeed from a 2016 USO tour at a military base in Turkey.

Evans was accompanied by fellow Avengers star Scarlett Johansson and notable athletes like Ray Allen and Maya DiRado during this goodwill visit.

An Air Force spokesperson clarified to AFP that the object is an "explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) inert training aid," designed solely for display and training purposes, shaped to resemble an artillery shell but entirely non-functional.

The issue drew parallels to a recent incident involving former North Carolina governor and presidential hopeful Nikki Haley, who inscribed a message on an artillery shell during a visit to Israel.

This context has heightened sensitivity around military imagery, especially given the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has led to significant loss of life and sparked global calls for ceasefire.