Roughly 11 days of violence has left nearly 1,600 people dead in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Rallies in the United States have sprung up in response to the hostilities, often accompanied by strong disagreements about the proper course of action for the US and the international community.
On Monday, at a pro-Israel rally in Boston, tensions flared when Senator Ed Markey suggested de-escalating the violence in Israel’s battle against Hamas. Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, was met with boos from the crowd and Rep. Jake Auchincloss, another Massachusetts Democrat, later rebuked Markey’s call for de-escalation.
On the day of the attack, Mareky said, “I condemn this heinous attack on Israel, and am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of civilian life. We must do everything in our power to deescalate violence, engage diplomacy, and avert bloodshed. A war between Israel and Palestine would be catastrophic.”
However, during a rally on October 10, called for “de-escalation.”
At a pro-Israel rally, Democrat Sen. Ed Markey calls for “de-escalation,” even amid the unspeakable crimes committed against innocent Israelis by Hamas terrorists.
The crowd immediately starts booing him. pic.twitter.com/5JqPcRT6nQ
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) October 10, 2023
Hamas has initiated a surprise attack on Israel, using ground, air, and sea troops in tandem with a barrage of thousands of rockets that have killed hundreds and wounded thousands. In response, Israel declared war against the Gaza-based group on Saturday night and began a retaliatory assault in Gaza. The violence escalated to a new level on Monday when Hamas kidnaped hostages, including women, children, and older civilians, and said there would be a televised execution of a hostage whenever an Israeli airstrike hit Gaza without warning.
In response to the rising tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed his country, saying, “Israel is at war. We didn’t want this war. It was forced upon us in the most brutal and savage way. But though Israel didn’t start this war, Israel will finish it.”
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken stood with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on October 12, 2023 affirming America’s support. The Secretary of State also reported that at least 25 Americans were killed in the Hamas attack.
