Recently, Sen. John Fetterman addressed Joe Biden’s criticism of Israel’s military response to the violent attack against Israeli citizens in October of last year. Fetterman slammed Hamas, claiming they hide behind the lives of innocent civilians and that the group is “responsible for all” the deaths of Palestinian civilians.
Fetterman made the comments during an appearance on CNN’s “CNN Newsnight,” where the Democratic Senator defended Israel’s actions, stating they intend to “minimize” civilian deaths in the conflict. He further suggested that if Hamas would surrender, it would spare the lives of many.
“So, you have, over the last several months now, been such a staunch supporter of Israel. You’ve backed how the State of Israel and the IDF [have] conducted this war inside of Gaza. President Biden also said last night during that press conference that the IDF operation in Gaza has been ‘over the top.’ Those are his words. Is the President wrong?” Host Abby Phillip asked Fetterman.
“No, I’m not saying it’s wrong. I’m saying that’s his opinion. I’m not necessarily going to agree with that. I do understand that Israeli intelligence believes that Sinwar is actually hiding there, because that’s what these cowards do. They hide behind civilians and children and women like that, as well, too. So, I believe that it’s very critical that they destroy and eliminate Hamas for there to be real, true peace there in Gaza,” the Pennsylvania Congressman responded.
Phillip then questioned Fetterman on Israel’s purported intention to relocate over 1 million people out of Southern Gaza. “Do you have any concerns about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans, it seems, to move more than 1.3 million people out of the Rafah area? That’s in southern Gaza. That’s basically where Israel told Gazan civilians to go. Are you concerned about what an operation there would mean for the civilian population that’s already displaced?” the host continued.
Fetterman explained that while he is concerned about the lives of innocent people, Hamas must be held accountable. He maintains that people should be talking about forcing the terrorist group to surrender and free hostages.
“Of course I’m concerned. The death of any one innocent Palestinian is a tragedy, and that’s been. But we also must remember that all of the blood [on] the hands are all on Hamas’ hands as well, too. They’re responsible for all of that. And I don’t know why there [are] not more people talking [about why Hamas must surrender]. Why don’t they bring back the last hostages as well, too?” he added.
Phillip doubled down on her question, pressing Fetterman’s stance on Israel’s plans. The Democratic senator supported Israel’s goal to eliminate Hamas leadership while continuing to advocate for their ultimate surrender.
Fetterman answered, “Well, if they believe that Sinwar is hiding there, then I — it seems that could be reasonable…to eliminate the leadership, because he’s effectively the [bin Laden] of…October 7…I know that they really and I believe they want to minimize any [kind] of death of civilians as well, too. But right now I’d say, if they just surrendered — if Hamas just surrendered, all of this would be over.”
Fetterman has remained steadfastly on the side of Israel amidst its war with Hamas. In fact, he has done so to such a degree that pro-Palestine protesters showed up at his house and he responded by waving an Israeli flag from his rooftop, taunting them. Watch that here:
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