Fetterman says Hamas must be ‘neutralized’ before any cease-fire talks

Sen. John Fetterman said he backs Israel and that “now is not the time to talk about a ceasefire,” unlike some of his Democratic colleagues who have been pushing for one.

In a series of posts on X Wednesday, the Pennsylvania Democrat said there must be support for Israel in its “efforts to eliminate the Hamas terrorists who slaughtered innocent men, women and children.”

“Hamas does not want peace, they want to destroy Israel,” Mr. Fetterman wrote. “We can talk about a ceasefire after Hamas is neutralized.”

On Thursday, dozens of protesters marched on Mr. Fetterman’s office in Philadelphia, some holding signs proclaiming “end the occupation,” the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. 

Mr. Fetterman called it “truly disturbing” that some members of Congress “rushed” to say that the attack on the hospital this week in Gaza was Israel’s doing. Hundreds were reported dead in the incident.

“Who would take the word of a group that just massacred innocent Israeli civilians over our key ally?” he questioned.

His posts came after Rep. Rashida Tlaib came under fire for not apologizing for supporting the claim that Israel caused the hospital explosion after evidence showed that the blow was likely caused by a misfiring missile from a Jihad group associated with Hamas.

The Michigan Democrat has been vocal about calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, even introducing the “Ceasefire Now Resolution” that urged the Biden administration to “immediately call for and facilitate de-escalation and a ceasefire” and “promptly send and facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance into Gaza.”

Israel has seen broad support from Congress and the White House despite the few Democrats calling for a ceasefire. The Senate plans to vote on a resolution Thursday reaffirming its support for Israel and condemning Hamas and Iran’s support for global terrorism.

President Biden is considering a $100 billion aid package that includes money for Ukraine and the war in Israel. Reports said the package could be sent to Congress by Friday after Mr. Biden’s trip to Israel.