House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) reiterated his backing for Israel and blamed the militant group Hamas for the deaths of children in Gaza.
When questioned about the loss of children’s lives in Gaza, Johnson asserted that the fault lies with the terrorists – the Hamas operators and soldiers – who have put civilians in harm’s way, not with Israel.
Johnson expressed confidence in Israel's efforts to minimize civilian casualties, emphasizing that they are fighting to protect their existence and are not the aggressors.
Israel is under scrutiny for its military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, since early October, according to local health authorities.
The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel has persisted for around seven months following a surprise attack by militants on Oct. 7, during which about 1,200 people were killed in southern Israel and approximately 250 others were taken hostage.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has remained resolute in Israel’s commitment to eradicating Hamas and ensuring the protection of civilian lives.
On Wednesday, Johnson echoed this stance while discussing the protests in support of Palestine on U.S. college campuses.
When asked whether he deemed the protests to be antisemitic, Johnson stressed the need for open debate and the exchange of ideas but cautioned against equating the situation with Gaza and Hamas.
Johnson contended that the conflict is a battle between good and evil, light and darkness, and civilization and barbarism. He emphasized the brutality of the attacks carried out by terrorists and questioned why Israel would be blamed for defending itself against imminent terrorist threats.
He also emphasized the importance of supporting Israel, the sole stable democracy in the Middle East, and refraining from dictating its military strategy.
Johnson and a group of Republican lawmakers visited Columbia University to denounce antisemitism and the ongoing campus demonstrations. was heckled The group was confronted by protestors during a press conference.
These statements were made shortly after Johnson led the House in passing passing a substantial foreign aid bill that includes nearly $26 billion for Israel and global humanitarian aid for Gaza and other regions.
