Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana has expressed his concerns regarding the ongoing situation involving American hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. In an op-ed published in the Ouachita Citizen, Kennedy urged the United States to maintain its support for Israel until all American hostages are safely returned. He highlighted that four Americans, Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Keith Siegel, remain captive.

Kennedy criticized the Biden-Harris administration for not taking stronger actions against Hamas and its supporters. He mentioned that Israeli officials believe three other Americans—Judith Weinstein Haggai, Gadi Haggai, and Itay Chen—died while in captivity. However, their bodies have not been returned by Hamas.

The senator also took issue with what he perceives as a lack of vocal support from President Biden and Vice President Harris for Israel. He argued that this silence might be an attempt to appease certain leftist groups who justify Hamas's actions.

Kennedy pointed out that despite evidence suggesting ties between the United Nations Relief and Work Agency (UNRWA) and Hamas supporters, the administration continues to support the organization. He referenced a recent incident where a Hamas leader killed in Lebanon was identified as an UNRWA employee.

He further criticized anti-Israel protests on college campuses across America, accusing them of fostering antisemitism. According to Kennedy, these protests included vandalism and threats against Jewish students.

In his op-ed, Kennedy emphasized that people in Louisiana clearly understand who is at fault in this conflict between Israel and Hamas. He called on President Biden and Vice President Harris to reaffirm their commitment to supporting Israel until all American hostages are freed.