AOC tries to defend Jewish people, but really steps in it when she posts explanation of her statement

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) tried to save face on Monday and defend Jewish people.

Amid rising anti-Semitism and increasing pushback from progressive Democrats to support Israel unequivocally, Ocasio-Cortez published a generic statement condemning anti-Semitism.

"Now more than ever, we must emphasize the importance of separating people from governments," the New York Democrat said.

"Antisemitism is disgusting and unacceptable. We have a responsibility to defend our Jewish brothers, sisters, and siblings from hatred. No movement of integrity should tolerate it. Ever," she added.

The statement generated significant skepticism because, less than one week ago, Ocasio-Cortez voted againsta House resolution supporting Israel and condemning Hamas. She was one of nine Democrats who voted against the resolution, while another six declined to support it by voting "present."

Not only that, but in 2021 Ocasio-Cortez refused to vote for Iron Dome funding. The Iron Dome is a sophisticated missile defense system that is critical to Israel's national security. Additionally, Ocasio-Cortez has been one of the loudest voices calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, a demand that even Hillary Clinton understands only rewards Hamas.

Meanwhile, Ocasio-Cortez published an extended version of her statement on Instagram in which she equated Hamas to the Israeli government.

"Our movement fights for Palestinian human rights AND protects the safety of our Jewish brothers, sisters, and siblings," she said. "Palestinians and those who advocate for them are NOT equivalent to Hamas. Israelis and those concerned for Jewish safety are NOT equivalent to the acts of the Israeli government."

The logic of Ocasio-Cortez's statement is:

• Palestinians = Israelis and "those concerned for Jewish safety";
• Hamas = "the acts of the Israeli government" (i.e., defending itself and its citizens from terrorists).

There are, of course, zero equivalencies between the two.

The Israeli government is a democratic institution elected by Israeli citizens, while Hamas is a terrorist organization. The Israeli government exists to govern a sovereign nation, while Hamas exists only to destroy Israel and kill Jews.

Comparing Hamas and the Israeli government also downplays Israel's right to self-defense. The truth is that Hamas provoked those "acts of the Israeli government" to which Ocasio-Cortez referred with its barbaric attack on Oct. 7.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!