Senator John Fetterman and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are at odds over US policy toward Israel and Hamas. Cortez is a critic of the US’s support for Israel. Fetterman vigorously defends the Jewish state. The schism could harm Democratic electoral prospects among pro-Palestinian voters.
A Divided Party
Senator John Fetterman and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez highlight a growing schism within the Democratic Party, with each holding firm but opposing views on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Fetterman, a staunch supporter of Israel, blamed Hamas for the Gaza crisis and called for hostages to be released. Ocasio-Cortez, deeply concerned about civilian casualties and humanitarian violations, called for a rethinking of US military aid to Israel.
This divide was highlighted during a recent interaction between politicians. Ocasio-Cortez openly criticized Fetterman’s approach, claiming it ignores the humanitarian implications. She accused the United States of enabling atrocities by providing military aid, and advocated for an arms embargo on Israel as a necessary corrective measure.
The tragedy in Gaza is 100% on Hamas.
Stop using civilians and hospitals as shields, surrender, and release all remaining hostages—and this ends. pic.twitter.com/taWOKTeI5c
— Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) October 15, 2024
Fetterman’s Firm Stance
John Fetterman maintained that Hamas is solely responsible for the ongoing violence, which is exacerbated by the use of civilians as shields. This has prompted him to criticize certain Democrats for failing to condemn Iran, which he regards as a terrorism sponsor aligned with Israel.
Quote: “The tragedy in Gaza is 100% on Hamas. Stop using civilians and hospitals as shields, surrender, and release all remaining hostages—and this ends.” – Fetterman posted on X.
Fetterman’s resolute support for Israel aligns with the stance of many Republicans, securing allies across the aisle while increasing tension within his party. More progressive party members have criticized his stance, citing Israel’s disproportionate military actions.
Ocasio-Cortez’s Humanitarian Concerns
Ocasio-Cortez, leveraging her platform, argued against the White House’s current policy. She emphasized the moral imperative to address civilian deaths and abuses linked to US-funded Israeli operations, describing these actions as a “unfolding genocide.” Her call for a policy shift echoes a broader progressive push within her party.
Quote: “I dunno man. I care about little kids dying. I care about human rights. I care that billions of US tax dollars’ worth of weapons are carrying out unspeakable atrocities,” Ocasio-Cortez said.
This ideological clash may present a challenge for Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden administration as they navigate internal conflicts that could sway key voter bases ahead of upcoming elections. Balancing national security interests with ethical humanitarian obligations is a difficult issue that requires attention.
Sources:
Ocasio-Cortez fires back at Fetterman’s ‘bleak dunk attempt’ on Gaza
Gaza humanitarian crisis on Israel: ‘100% on Hamas’
NEWSFLASH AOC: War always creates a humanitarian crisis, it’s always destructive and people are injured and die. Lesson: Don’t start wars and if you do expect to pay the price. Israel is it’s own country and is in great jeopardy and in harm’s way from the Palestinians leadership that hates & wishes to annihilate them. The US, if we had proper leadership, would strike back full force and our government shouldn’t criticize or interfere when Israel does the same. They are bombed daily!! Please, please get out of our government, you are totally biased and not bright!