In the midst of an unprecedented attack on Israel by Hamas, Democratic strategist Brad Howard and former Trump legal adviser May Mailman have offered their reactions, shedding light on America’s global position. Mailman asserts that the nation’s standing is “broken,” while Howard condemns the attacks and emphasizes the need for an end to the Gaza blockade.
New York Democrat Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a member of the progressive group known as “The Squad,” took to social media to express his condemnation of the Iranian-backed Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. He called for an end to the Gaza blockade and expressed his sadness over the loss of lives during the holy day of Simchat Torah. Bowman’s statement also highlighted the ongoing fear and trauma experienced by Israelis and Palestinians living in the region.
Amidst the escalating situation, Bowman, who recently made headlines for pulling a fire alarm in Congress, stated that he and his team will closely monitor the developments, particularly due to the presence of Westchester service members in the area of the attacks.
The assault launched by Hamas has resulted in over 200 Israeli deaths, with Gaza health officials reporting 198 Palestinian casualties as a response to Israeli airstrikes. Hospitals are currently treating 985 wounded individuals, including 77 in critical condition.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the nation is at war, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Ambulance crews have been dispatched, and sirens can be heard across Israel. The Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva, the largest town in southern Israel, is treating 140 wounded individuals, including those in serious and critical condition. Gunmen have also opened fire on passersby in the town of Sderot.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have mobilized their forces and moved troops to the Gaza border. Correspondent Trey Yingst reports that gunfire has already erupted as the forces approach each other. Hamas has also taken hostages and held prisoners of war in Gaza, further escalating tensions.
The global community has been closely following the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the Gaza Strip being a longstanding focal point. The area, occupied by Palestinians and bordered by the Mediterranean Sea between Egypt and Israel, was originally under Egyptian control until Israel took over during the Six-Day War in 1967. Decades of conflict have ensued, with the first intifada occurring in Gaza in 1987.
Criticism has been directed at Bowman for his stance towards Israel, as he was one of nine progressives who voted against a resolution affirming that Israel was not a racist or apartheid state. Protests in Gaza against the economic blockade, which Hamas leaders described as aggressive, have further fueled tensions.
As the situation unfolds, calls for peace and an end to the violence have emerged amidst the devastating loss of lives. It remains to be seen how the international community will respond to this ongoing crisis.
