In a show of solidarity with the pro-Palestinian movement, thousands of protestors gathered in Washington D.C., demanding justice and freedom for Palestine. However, the event highlighted a deepening divide within the Democratic Party, as a majority of House Democrats chose not to sign a statement rejecting a pro-Palestinian phrase that critics argue calls for the extermination of Israel. This division comes in the aftermath of Hamas terrorists’ brutal attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip.
Out of the 212 Democrats in the House, more than 60 representatives did sign the statement denouncing the phrase “From the River to the Sea.” The statement, issued by U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider, Hillary Scholten, Ritchie Torres, and Norma Torres, rejects the use of this phrase as it has been employed by Hamas and others to rally for the destruction of the State of Israel and genocide of the Jewish people.
The phrase “From the river to the sea Palestine will be free” has long been used by pro-Palestinian supporters. However, it has gained significant attention and controversy following Hamas’ Oct. 7 multi-pronged attack on Israeli communities, resulting in the death of 1,400 people. In response, Israel launched airstrikes targeting Hamas, which controls Gaza.
While Republicans have largely shown unwavering support for Israel during this conflict, House Democrats have been divided. Among the critics of Israel is U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib, who is of Palestinian descent. She defended the phrase, arguing that it represents an aspirational call for freedom, human rights, and peaceful coexistence, rather than death, destruction, or hate. On the other hand, fellow Democrat U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz strongly disagreed, asserting that the phrase signifies eradicating Israel and Jews.
Tlaib, along with other progressive Democrats known as “the Squad,” has been calling for a ceasefire and has criticized President Biden for his support of Israel. In response, the Biden administration has called for humanitarian pauses to provide aid to Palestinian civilians and evacuate Israeli hostages from Gaza.
Amidst this political turmoil, Tlaib accused President Biden of supporting the genocide of the Palestinian people. Her statement sparked a debate within the Democratic Party, with fellow members expressing contrasting viewpoints on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how House Democrats will navigate this divide and find common ground on the issue. The pro-Palestine protests in Washington D.C. serve as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges faced by politicians in addressing this longstanding issue.
