Quincy Institute Faces Criticism from Pro-Israel Advocates

The Quincy Institute (QI), a think tank in Washington, D.C., known for its anti-interventionist stance, has responded to recent backlash from some vocal pro-Israel figures on the right. This criticism seemed to ramp up recently, particularly after remarks made by conservative influencer Will Chamberlain.

Chamberlain highlighted that QI’s CEO, Lora Lumpe, had previously worked in foreign policy at the Open Society Foundations, an organization established by George Soros. He also noted that both the Open Society and the Charles Koch Foundation had contributed $500,000 to QI. He called for a comprehensive federal investigation into QI and its financing.

“The Quincy Institute is an American think tank that prioritizes the interests of the American people in its foreign policy,” stated Alex Jordan, QI’s deputy director of communications.

Jordan went on to describe the recent spate of unsubstantiated attacks on QI as attempts to divert attention from their effective research regarding the intertwining of U.S. and Israeli military industries, which he claims is making the relationship between the two nations less accountable and more complex.

Chamberlain’s comments sparked further hostility from pro-Israel supporters, including Mark Thiessen, a columnist for the Washington Post and a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, who disparaged QI by dubbing it the “Quisling Institute,” referencing the notorious Norwegian politician who infamously collaborated with the Nazis during World War II.

In June, a group of influencers advocating for Israel, including Laura Loomer, publicly called for the deportation of Trita Parsi, QI’s Executive Vice President. This call gained traction after claims surfaced in the Free Press suggesting that the Trump State Department might investigate Parsi’s status. Parsi holds dual citizenship from Iran and Sweden and is a legal resident in the U.S.

In light of the accusations, Parsi expressed his long-standing battles against neoconservative influences in Washington, emphasizing that attempts to silence him have been ongoing for over 25 years. He noted, “It’s only recently that they tried to deport me.”

Parsi also mentioned he didn’t believe any formal investigation was in place but that certain factions within the State Department might have been attempting to initiate one. He shared instances of social media influencers pushing for his deportation, even creating AI-generated content portraying his arrest.

A U.S. official later confirmed to Turkish media that there were currently no intentions to revoke Parsi’s green card, while also stating that any foreign national involved in activities undermining U.S. national security could face consequences.

Jordan affirmed that QI remains dedicated to promoting a non-interventionist foreign policy through their research efforts despite the ongoing attacks. “These smear campaigns won’t stop us from continuing our essential work,” he concluded.