Sanders backs pro-Palestinian demonstrations while denouncing all bigotry

Sen. Bernie Sanders expressed his support for protests against Israel's war in Gaza while emphasizing the importance of condemning all forms of bigotry, including antisemitism and Islamophobia.

During an interview with CNN's Dana Bash on "State of the Union," Sanders criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, describing their actions as unprecedented and extreme in the history of warfare.

We are currently facing the risk of mass starvation and famine in Gaza. Accusing this situation is not considered antisemitic, it is simply acknowledging a harsh reality.

Sanders' remarks coincide with a wave of pro-Palestinian demonstrations on college campuses throughout the United States. Tensions on campus have escalated following Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, resulting in over 1,200 casualties and numerous hostages. In response, Israel's military action in Gaza has led to the deaths of more than 34,000 individuals, as reported by its health ministry.

Reports of antisemitic acts have increased on campuses, along with a rise in Islamophobia. The surge in protests has intensified these tensions, leading university leaders to grapple with the question of when free speech crosses the line into being threatening.

During a recent statement, Sanders, an Independent from Vermont, shared his personal connection to the issue. He emphasized the importance of condemning antisemitism, citing the devastating impact it has had historically. Sanders also made a point to denounce Islamophobia and all other forms of bigotry, calling on all Americans to stand against discrimination.

Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy expressed his support for campus protests, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against violence and hate speech. He believes that the majority of young people protesting on campuses are motivated by a belief in addressing injustices in Israel, and he advocates for protecting their right to peaceful protest.

Murphy acknowledged that there may come a point where protests disrupt campus operations, but he is not overly concerned by protests that extend over multiple days.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell emphasized the importance of the First Amendment, stating that it does not give individuals the right to falsely shout "fire" in a crowded theater as it endangers others.

McConnell urged university presidents to take control of the situation, promote free speech, and stand against antisemitism during an interview with CBS News.

College officials have been caught in the middle of Israel-Hamas war protests, amidst a global debate on the US role in the conflict and the race for the White House and control of Congress. Elite college presidents have faced scrutiny, with some being summoned to Capitol Hill and even losing their jobs as political parties vie for moral and political standing.

The increase in universities resorting to police to disband protests has raised concerns among some, suggesting that officials are avoiding meaningful engagement with students and their demands. These demands often include divesting institutional investments from companies that support Israel or its military, or profit from the war.

CNN’s Dakin Andone, Casey Gannon and Annie Grayer contributed to this story.

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