The White House has strongly condemned comments made by some members of Congress in response to the devastating terrorist attacks on Israel. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre labeled the remarks by the progressive “Squad” members as “wrong,” “repugnant,” and “disgraceful.”
The Squad, a group of progressive representatives, called for an immediate cease-fire and for the US to stop funding Israel in response to the attacks. The Democratic Socialists of America also promoted a pro-Palestinian rally in Manhattan, which drew criticism for its timing as Israel counted over 1,200 dead and thousands more injured.
In response to these statements, President Biden’s press secretary emphasized the US’s unwavering support for Israel and unequivocally denounced terrorism. “Our condemnation belongs squarely with the terrorists who have brutally murdered, raped, and kidnapped hundreds of innocent Israelis. There can be no equivocation about that. There are not two sides here,” Jean-Pierre said.
The anti-Israel sentiment expressed by some members of Congress has caused a stir among Democrats. On Wednesday, Michigan representative Shri Thanedar announced his resignation from the party, stating, “After the brutal terrorist attacks on Israel, which included the indiscriminate murder, rape, and kidnapping of innocent men, women, and children, I can no longer associate with an organization unwilling to call out terrorism in all its forms.” He also condemned Sunday’s anti-Israel rally, promoted by the NYC-DSA, as being “hate-filled and antisemitic.”
Among the members of the Squad, Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Cori Bush, Ayanna Pressley, and Jamaal Bowman called for an immediate end to the violence and conflict, while also criticizing US foreign policy in the region. Rep. Rashida Tlaib went further, calling for an end to US assistance to Israel. President Biden, in his televised remarks on the attacks, addressed the need for a cease-fire and his administration’s priority of hostage recovery.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has taken a heavy toll on both sides. Over 1,200 people have been killed, including 14 Americans, and 1,100 have been injured. Reports also state that Hamas has taken around 150 people captive, including women and children, and has threatened to post footage of their executions. The ongoing violence has also resulted in immense psychological trauma and displacement for countless people in the region.
In conclusion, the White House’s condemnation of the Squad’s comments reflects the US’s continued support for Israel and its unwavering stance against terrorism. The ongoing conflict has resulted in countless casualties and ongoing trauma for the people of Israel and Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for a cease-fire and a long-term solution for lasting peace in the region.
