WATCH: Jamaal Bowman Says Supporting Israeli Ceasefire Is ‘What It Actually Means To Be Jewish’
Rep. Jamaal Bowman: Supporting Ceasefire in Israel’s War is Embracing Jewish Values
“I’ve heard what was said here this evening before,” said Rep. Jamaal Bowman at a rally with the group Rabbis for Ceasefire, “that, by me calling for a ceasefire with my colleagues and centering humanity, I am uplifting deeply what it actually means to be Jewish because I’m centering the way in which God wants us to live with each other, so I feel grateful to be standing here.”
Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D., N.Y.) passionately expressed his support for a ceasefire in Israel’s war against Hamas, stating that it aligns with the true essence of Judaism. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing humanity and living in accordance with God’s teachings. Bowman also mourned the devastating loss of “4,000 children and counting” due to what he described as a “fascist, right-wing, destructive government in Israel.”
“The Israeli government does not represent Judaism or Jewish values and the Jewish people,” Bowman added. “It does not, just like Hamas doesn’t represent the Palestinian people, and so, we have to hold these governments accountable for how they behave and treat people in the name of the people they’re supposed to represent.”
Bowman firmly asserted that the Israeli government does not reflect the principles of Judaism or the Jewish community. He emphasized the need to hold both the Israeli government and Hamas accountable for their actions, as they do not truly represent their respective people. Bowman also referred to a letter from 26 rabbis in his district who criticized his call for a ceasefire, highlighting the division within the Jewish community.
“We cannot bomb our way to peace,” Bowman said at Monday’s rally, “and we’ve been bombing—not just Gaza—but America has a history of bombing countries and people.” He said Congress and the White House might be “corrupted by violence.”
Bowman emphasized the futility of using violence as a means to achieve peace, stating that bombing has been a recurring pattern not only in Gaza but also in America’s history. He raised concerns about the potential influence of violence on Congress and the White House, suggesting that it may corrupt their decision-making processes.
Other House Democrats who joined Bowman at the rally included progressive “squad” members Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D., Mich.), Cori Bush (D., Mo.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D., N.Y.), and Ilhan Omar (D., Minn.).
Bowman has been advocating for a ceasefire in Israel’s conflict with Hamas for almost a month. On Oct. 16, nine days after Hamas’s attack, he announced his cosponsorship of the “Ceasefire Now” resolution, which was introduced by Tlaib and Bush along with several other Democratic House members.
What are the arguments against supporting a ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and how does Bowman respond to them?
Rnment.” His statements have sparked a debate within both the Jewish community and the wider political sphere.
Bowman’s words resonated with the group Rabbis for Ceasefire, who invited him to speak at their rally. They believe that advocating for a ceasefire reflects the principles of Judaism, particularly the value of preserving human life. By calling for an end to the violence, Bowman argued that he is embodying the teachings of Judaism and promoting a society based on compassion and empathy.
In his remarks, Bowman acknowledged the criticism he has faced for his stance. Some argue that supporting a ceasefire would undermine Israel’s right to defend itself. However, the congressman highlighted that his support for a ceasefire is not a condemnation of Israel, but rather a call for a resolution that avoids further bloodshed and loss of innocent lives.
Bowman’s perspective is grounded in an interpretation of Jewish values that prioritize peace and justice. He referenced the commandment “Thou shalt not kill,” highlighting the need to consider the broader implications of the conflict. For him, supporting a ceasefire in Israel’s war is a reflection of these teachings and an embrace of the values that define Judaism.
The congressman also denounced the loss of Palestinian lives, particularly the high number of children who have perished in the conflict. He expressed his deep sorrow for the suffering caused by the war and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution that ensures the rights and safety of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Bowman’s statements have ignited a discourse within the Jewish community. While some applaud his stance, others criticize him for seemingly aligning himself with anti-Israel sentiments. The controversy surrounding his remarks underscores the complex nature of discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the diverse perspectives that exist within the Jewish community.
In conclusion, Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s support for a ceasefire in Israel’s war against Hamas is rooted in his belief that it aligns with the moral teachings of Judaism. Bowman argues that by prioritizing humanity and advocating for peace, he is embracing the values that define the Jewish faith. While his stance has sparked debate and criticism, it highlights the diversity of opinions within the Jewish community and the complexities of discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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