Cuomo Critiques Reactions to Israeli Embassy Shooting
Chris Cuomo, host of News Nation, voiced strong criticism on Thursday regarding the responses from “the left” and Democrats to the tragic shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members near a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C.
The shooter, identified as Elias Rodriguez, reportedly shouted “Free Palestine” during the incident, which resulted in the deaths of Pamela Smith from the Metropolitan Police and two others, Yaron Lisinsky and Sarah Milgrim. In a press conference, Cuomo described Rodriguez as a “far left activist,” accusing left-leaning individuals of having a biased perspective on the event.
Cuomo highlighted that the shooter was clearly vocal about his beliefs, saying, “We know he was caught on camera screaming ‘free Palestine.’ Upon his arrest, he kept chanting, claiming, ‘I did that for Gaza.’ Yet, there are those on the left questioning the situation, suggesting phrases like ‘If it’s true’ or ‘If he’s not an IDF plant.’ It’s perplexing. They don’t want to take responsibility for what he did. He has made his stance clear.”
Moreover, Cuomo supported journalist Douglas Murray’s criticism of platforms, like Joe Rogan’s podcast, for giving voice to those who espouse anti-Israel sentiments.
He pointed out that Rodriguez fired nearly 20 bullets during his attack, indicating a desire to harm as many as possible. Cuomo remarked on the alarming tendency of some individuals to identify with the oppression in Gaza, as if they were a part of it. He implied that there are many who share that mindset on campuses across America.
He also noted the influence of certain narratives circulating in the U.S. that may contribute to this mindset, bringing attention to figures like Democrat New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, whom he called out for her reactions.
Cuomo read Ocasio-Cortez’s posts condemning the murders, emphasizing, “There is absolutely nothing to justify this innocent murder. Anti-Semitism threatens all of us as a society.” However, he questioned the omission of the fact that the victims were Jewish, suggesting it was a curious oversight. “They weren’t just random victims; they were targeted,” he asserted.
He continued, expressing that while he acknowledges the complexity of the situation, it shouldn’t exempt anyone from the responsibilities surrounding such tragedies. Cuomo remarked, “These two victims did nothing to provoke the attack. While many in Gaza may not support Hamas, the reality is complicated. There are ties back to terrorism that shouldn’t be ignored.” He acknowledged the necessity for support but underscored it must not be given unconditionally.
Cuomo concluded by urging Democrats to be more discerning and to hold their members accountable, stating, “I get why you’re concerned about President Trump’s rhetoric. But if we’re talking about ultimate evil, let’s not overlook the extreme elements present within our own borders.”
