Yes, the Guardian article linked above used the phrase, "appears to". Apparently they were not comfortable being more explicit than that. You may find the article helps to understand the context of the discussion of the article.

They also went on to cite the ADL to define the gesture. However, the ADL was explicit in their interpretation:

>It seems that @elonmusk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge.

>In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace, perhaps even the benefit of the doubt, and take a breath. This is a new beginning. Let’s hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead.

I dislike Elon for reasons beyond the scope of this discussion. Certainly not a "sycophant". There's a fair amount of reducto-ad-hiterlum going around HN right now. I hope more reasonable rhetoric can prevail.