More than 30 Republicans in the U.S. House led by U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich., called on U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to respond to a series of questions related to recent pro-Hamas activity.
Florida Republican U.S. Reps. Carlos Gimenez and Dan Webster signed the letter.
“On October 4, 2021, your department announced its intention to go after American parents who were speaking on behalf of their children at school board meetings… you cited ‘a disturbing spike in harassment, intimidation, and threats of violence,” the members wrote. “However, since Hamas’ recent attack on Israel, you have not issued a similar memo about the increase of anti-Semitic violence, the threats of intimidation being made against supports of Israel, or the public rallies being held in support of a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.”
“Since Hamas’ initial attack on Israel on October 7, rallies in support of Hamas have been occurring throughout the United States, directing violence and anti-Semitic vandalism towards Jewish Americans and our nation’s cities and college campuses. This includes a public declaration of a ‘Day of Rage’ on October 13, leading to increased security measures at the U.S. Capitol and cities across the country. While the Freedom of Speech is a cornerstone of our nation, there is no place for activities that call for the intimidation and endangerment of American citizens,” Webster’s office noted.
“It must be made clear that the United States wholly and strongly condemns anti-Semitism and stands with our Jewish allies. Therefore, Attorney General Merrick Garland must be held accountable for his failure to address these pro-Hamas rallies and answer the questions posed by Congress,” Webster’s office added.
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