Staff Reports
The Democratic Party is in disarray as they grapple with the impending reality of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for a ground invasion into Rafah, despite President Joe Biden’s vocal opposition. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is set to give a speech outlining a “pathway to peace and achieving a two-state solution,” aiming to address the deepening divisions within the party over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The Oct. 7 massacre and Israel’s military offensive have exacerbated internal differences within the Democratic Party. Progressive Democrats have strongly opposed Israel’s response to the attack, while the majority of the party has emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself, despite increasing calls for restraint.
Netanyahu’s impending Rafah invasion threatens to fracture Democrats further on Israel – Washington Examiner https://t.co/wsPmoZnVAz
— Cassis (@cassisnouveau) March 14, 2024
Schumer, a prominent pro-Israel figure in the Democratic Party and the highest-ranking Jewish official in the United States, has faced challenges in maintaining his support for Netanyahu’s war and a two-state solution. While many lawmakers theoretically support a two-state solution, some pro-Israel voices have argued that it is unattainable as long as Hamas remains in control of Gaza.
Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) has steadfastly supported Israel and opposed a ceasefire since Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7, emphasizing the need to eliminate Hamas before pursuing a two-state solution. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has insisted that Israel needs “security control over all territory” to ensure its safety, a stance that clashes with the idea of Palestinian sovereignty.
Support for the war has diminished among Democrats due to the high death toll of Palestinian civilians and Netanyahu’s refusal to adhere to U.S. demands to increase aid to Gaza, despite warnings of an imminent humanitarian crisis. Democratic leaders, however, have staunchly maintained their support for Israel’s military efforts, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) advocating for a “decisive defeat” of Hamas.
Netanyahu has attributed the hindered flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza to Hamas, dismissing U.S. criticisms and questioning the potential for famine in Gaza. Some Democrats have called for a temporary or permanent ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need to accelerate aid and address the nightmarish humanitarian situation in Gaza.
In the face of these challenges, the Democratic Party finds itself divided over its stance on Israel and the conflict in Gaza. As the situation continues to unfold, the party’s leaders are under pressure to navigate a cohesive position on the issue.
