Graduate Student Discusses Hamas on CNN

During a segment on CNN’s “Situation Room” on Tuesday, Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student from Columbia University, declined to denounce Hamas. He had recently been detained by immigration and customs enforcement but was released by a federal judge.

Co-host Pamela Brown asked, “Do you specifically condemn Hamas, a US-designated terrorist organization?”

Khalil responded, “I condemn the murder of all my comrades and the loss of civilian lives. However, I don’t want to delve into –“

Brown interjected, “But do you specifically blame Hamas?”

Khalil replied, “No, I’m clear about blaming all civilians affected by this situation. It’s straightforward for me. But it feels dishonest to solely ask about denouncing Hamas, especially given that Palestinians are currently suffering due to the actions of Israel. We need to consider the root causes of these events.”

Brown clarified, “To be clear, Mahmoud, we asked. I understand you want to discuss your views on the situation for Palestinians. But it’s reasonable to ask whether you blame Hamas, particularly since the Trump administration has suggested a link between Hamas and sympathy for your position.”

Khalil continued, “Yes, I have protested against the war in Palestine because that is my obligation as a Palestinian. When you have 62,000 Palestinians killed by Israel, I don’t feel that blame should fall on me.”