US Senator Graham’s Controversial Gaza Comment Sparks Outrage
US Senator Lindsey Graham has spoken out against Defense Minister Lyold Austin and Vice President Kamala Harris’ criticism of Israel’s Gaza policy. In an interview with CNN, Graham claimed that Hamas was “everywhere in Gaza” and that it was “impossible” for Israel to distinguish civilians in its attacks.
The Republican Senator criticized Defense Secretary Austin, calling his belief that “more civilian casualties in Gaza could produce more rebels” as “naive.” Graham also expressed his lack of trust in Austin and criticized the Palestinian education system, stating that “the idea that Israel somehow radicalized the people in Gaza is ridiculous. They have been radicalized by Hamas for years.”
Graham defended the idea that Hamas was “integrated into the apartment buildings, schools, and hospitals” in Gaza, and blamed Hamas for the high number of Palestinian casualties, stating, “I think the reason why so many Palestinians are dead is because Hamas wants them dead.”
Senator Graham also tried to normalize Israel’s killing of civilians in Gaza by using examples from World War II, citing the US response to the attack on Pearl Harbor and the September 11 attacks.
He criticized Defense Minister Austin, saying, “If we were asked to make a ceasefire against Al Qaeda in a month or two (without adequately responding to those responsible), we would ignore it. Minister Austin is telling Israel things that are impossible to achieve.”
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Austin called on Israeli leaders to personally avoid civilian casualties and irresponsible rhetoric, as well as to prevent settler violence in the West Bank and expand access to humanitarian assistance.
The comments made by Senator Graham reflect the ongoing debate and criticism over Israel’s Gaza policy, as well as the complexities and challenges of the situation.
