In a surprising turn of events, Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has drawn criticism from many on the left for her comments on those advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
During an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union” with Dana Bash, Pelosi was asked about the potential impact of opposition to the Biden administration’s stance on the Gaza conflict in the upcoming November elections. Pelosi first mentioned regular pro-Palestinian protests outside her house and then shocked many with her next statement.
She asserted, “For them to call for a cease-fire is Mr. Putin’s message. Make no mistake, this is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine.”
Pelosi continued, “Some of these protesters are spontaneous and organic and sincere. Some, I think, are connected to Russia. I say that having looked at this for a long time.”
Pressed for clarification, Pelosi stated, “I don’t think they’re plants. I think some financing should be investigated, and I want the FBI to investigate that.”
This marked the first instance of a prominent U.S. politician suggesting that Putin orchestrated support for protestors seeking a ceasefire.
Our Executive Director Nihad Awad: “We are deeply disturbed by Former House Speaker Pelosi’s comments. Rep. Pelosi’s claim that some of the Americans protesting for a Gaza ceasefire are working with Vladmir Putin sounds delusional and her call for the FBI to investigate those… pic.twitter.com/wT0NCBcCY5
— CAIR National (@CAIRNational) January 29, 2024
Pelosi’s remarks surfaced amid left-wing criticism of the Biden administration’s refusal to endorse an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, engaged in conflict since October 7. While the U.N. pushed for a swift ceasefire, the U.S. vetoed the motion, expressing concerns about providing Hamas an opportunity to regroup.
Pelosi’s comments have stirred discontent on the left, with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) expressing her primary concern as “the loss of life” during a “Meet the Press” interview on Sunday.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also expressed displeasure with Pelosi’s statements on Gaza sympathizers. CAIR’s national executive director Nihad Awad stated that the organization was “deeply disturbed” by her comments.
There is speculation that Pelosi’s remarks could have a negative impact on the Biden campaign in the weeks to come.
