Payam Javan: Michigan Representative Shri Thanedar, a Democrat, has decided to terminate his membership in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) following the organization’s promotion of a rally celebrating Hamas’ recent violent attack on Israel. Thanedar, denouncing the anti-Semitism displayed at the rally, suspended his involvement in the political movement. The rally, reportedly attended by over 1,000 participants, saw some stomping on an Israeli flag and expressing support for the deadly attack. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has claimed around 2,500 lives, including 27 American citizens.

Several progressive Congressional Democrats, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jamaal Bowman, condemned the DSA rally. Representative Thanedar officially renounced his DSA membership on social media, citing the organization’s unwillingness to denounce terrorism in all its forms. He emphasized his support for Israel, stating that an organization celebrating actions against Israel is not one he can be associated with. The DSA responded to the controversial rally, expressing regret for the confusion caused by their promotion and emphasizing concerns about the root causes of violence in the region.

However, not all Democratic leaders share Thanedar’s sentiments. Some members of the “Squad,” including Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, used the crisis to advance a political message in support of Palestine. This stance has drawn criticism, with even White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre labeling the comments as “repugnant.” The divergence in opinions among Democrats highlights the complex and divisive nature of the Israel-Hamas conflict within the party.