Leticia James Circulates Petition Addressing Gaza Crisis
New York Attorney General Leticia James has been quietly circulating a petition among fellow Democrats, aiming to address the ongoing “humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza, yet notably omitting any reference to Hamas.
The first version of this petition, which was shared with several elected officials and obtained by the Post, did not include a condemnation of Hamas for its role in the Middle East conflict.
“We are united in this moment by the undeniable truth that we can no longer ignore. Hunger is expanding in Gaza before the eyes of the world,” stated the draft, which claims to represent a coalition of diverse elected officials.
“We will not deny that. We are witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe…” the petition continued.
The document urged Americans to voice their concerns, support relief initiatives, and push leaders to utilize all diplomatic avenues to resolve this crisis.
Initially, James’ office did not comment when the original draft surfaced. Later, however, they released an updated version of the letter, which condemned terrorist actions and called for immediate assistance to Gaza.
“We are united in denouncing the October 7th massacre and the unavoidable truths associated with Hamas. Hunger is stretching across Gaza, right in front of the world,” it read.
Over 60 elected Democrats, encompassing federal, state, and city officials, have signed the petition, including Rep. Jerold Nadler and New York Secretary Brad Lander.
Interestingly, Zoran Mamdani, a Queens socialist and anti-Israel MP whom James supports for the New York mayoral election this November, did not sign the letter as he is currently on vacation in Uganda.
Brooklyn Councillor Inna Vernikov criticized the original draft through a spokesperson, asserting that “New York is run by a leftist Kabal, who protects terrorists instead of facing the truth.” The spokesperson added, “Acknowledging a humanitarian crisis without addressing its root cause — a terrorist regime using civilians as shields — is dishonest. It’s not compassion to neglect that truth; it’s complicity.”
Congressman Charles Fall, representing parts of Staten Island along with Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, mentioned he signed the letter since he views the Gaza situation as a humanitarian crisis. “People are suffering and hungry. Just think about the kids,” he remarked, noting that he has two daughters aged 6 and 11. “This letter strikes a balance; it mentions hostages, too.”
