Sparks Fly As Hannity Presses CAIR Representative Over Whether Hamas Is a Terrorist Organization

A tense exchange unfolded on Fox News Wednesday evening as host Sean Hannity pressed a CAIR representative over whether Hamas is a terrorist organization.

Hassan Shibly, executive director of CAIR in Florida, appeared on the network to represent the family of the college student who left the U.S. to join the Islamic State.

Things immediately got tense when Shibly seemingly took offense to Hannity labeling CAIR as a "controversial" organization and asking about the organization's ties to radical elements in the Islamic community.

"Let's not change the subject here," Shibly told Hannity.

"I can ask any question I want, this is my show," Hannity shot back.

After Shibly condemned the Islamic State as an "extremist violent gang of monsters," Hannity suddenly shifted the conversation to Hamas.

"What do you think about Hamas? Their charter calls for the destruction of Israel. Is Hamas a terrorist organization?" the Fox News host asked.

"Why are you changing — Sean, Sean," Shibly responded.

"I just asked you a question. Is Hamas a terrorist organization?" Hannity asked again.

"Every Muslim you bring, every Muslim you bring you change the topic. Invite an expert on terrorism. I am here as a representative of this family," Shibly said.

Hannity wasn't satisfied.

"Hamas' charter calls for the destruction of Israel. Is that a terrorist organization?" he asked.

"But what does that have to do? I'm so confused," Shibly said.

"Are you confused?" Hannity shot back. "Let me say the question slowly so you will understand it. Hamas' charter calls for the destruction of Israel and the killing of Jews. Are they a terrorist organization?"

"Yeah, they are designated as a terrorist organization by the State Department," Shibly answered.

"And you agree with that?" Hannity pressed.

"Yeah, but that's not why were are here. I am a little confused why — I mean, shame on you! Same on you for just asking every Muslim what he thinks of terrorist organizations," Shibly said before Hannity promptly concluded the interview.

(H/T: Mediaite)

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