Staff Reports
In recent weeks, there have been loud and sometimes violent protests against Israel at colleges around the country. Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat, is standing out by speaking against these protests. He criticized the anti-Israel encampments set up by protesters, calling it unhelpful to support Hamas, a terrorist group responsible for killing many people.
Fetterman pointed out what he sees as a “seed of antisemitism” in these protests. He highlighted a Columbia student who organized an encampment and made concerning statements about wanting to harm Zionists. Fetterman expressed his disappointment in some college leaders for defending such language as taken out of context.
“It's a great American value to protest, but I don't believe living in a pup tent for Hamas is really helpful,” @JohnFetterman, D-Pa., told NewsNation's Chris Stirewalt on #TheHillSunday as he addressed the increase of pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses. pic.twitter.com/elhIQepmm5
— NewsNation (@NewsNation) April 28, 2024
His views sharply contrast with those of far-left Democrats in the House, known as “The Squad.” Members of this group went to Columbia to show support for anti-Israel demonstrators, despite violent chants endorsing Hamas and calling for the destruction of Tel Aviv.
The protests were not limited to Columbia; similar demonstrations occurred at UCLA, Harvard, George Washington University, the University of North Carolina, and the University of Pennsylvania. These events have sparked concerns about the rise of antisemitism on college campuses.
The protests on college campuses against Israel are deeply concerning. Senator Fetterman deserves credit for speaking out against the dangerous rhetoric and actions taken by some protesters. It’s alarming to see far-left Democrats supporting such anti-Israel sentiments, especially when they involve violence and support for terrorist groups like Hamas. These events highlight the need for stronger leadership to combat antisemitism and ensure a safe environment for all students on campus.
