[vc_row][vc_column column_width_percent=”100″ align_horizontal=”align_center” gutter_size=”3″ overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1/1″ uncode_shortcode_id=”150680″][vc_custom_heading text_font=”font-762333″ text_size=”bigtext” text_weight=”700″ text_transform=”capitalize” text_space=”fontspace-111509″ separator=”yes” sub_lead=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”140307″]ICAN Welcomes White House Condemnation of CAIR[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”100069″]
December 8, 2023
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”466380″]The Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN) applauds the White House’s condemnation of recent comments made by the national executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), regarding the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel. Deploying extremist rhetoric at a private event, CAIR’s executive director claimed that the people of Gaza have the right to self-defense, while Israel does not, and that he was “happy to see” the people of Gaza “breaking the siege” on October 7th, when Hamas attacked Israel, killed 1,200 people, and abducted hundreds more.
This is another example of a concerning pattern of behavior demonstrating that CAIR’s actual priority is the dehumanization of the Jewish people. CAIR’s statements, which justify the inexcusable terrorist attacks by Hamas and question Israel’s right to self-defense, are not only deeply disturbing but also blatantly antisemitic. Such irresponsible rhetoric dangerously fuels hatred and violence against Jewish communities globally.
In a powerful response, a White House spokesperson unequivocally condemned the comments made by CAIR, “We condemn these shocking, antisemitic statements in the strongest terms.” The White House further emphasized the gravity of the situation by referencing President Biden’s remarks on the 10/7 attacks: “The horrific, brutal terrorist attacks committed by Hamas on October 7th were, as President Biden said, ‘abhorrent’ and represent ‘unadulterated evil.'” the spokesperson continued, “The atrocities of that day shock the conscience, which is why we can never forget the pain Hamas has caused for so many innocent people.”
This strong condemnation of CAIR from the White House serves as a crucial reminder of the need for all leaders to stand firmly against antisemitism and terrorism.
We urge elected leaders and community members to follow the White House’s lead and reject the divisive rhetoric and harmful actions of CAIR. It is essential that we stand united against all forms of hate and violence, especially those targeting religious or ethnic groups. Antisemitic rhetoric and actions, under any guise, cannot be tolerated.
ICAN remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the safety and rights of Israeli-Americans and Jewish communities across the United States. We will continue to work tirelessly to combat antisemitism and promote a world where respect, understanding, and cooperation prevail over hatred and division fostered by the likes of CAIR.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”140603″]The Israeli-American Civic Action Network is dedicated to empowering Israeli immigrants and American allies to create change for a better America, a more secure Israel, and a stronger U.S. – Israel alliance through advocacy education and civic action. Learn more at IsraelUSA.org.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]