Title: Ocasio-Cortez’s DNC Speech Exposes Rifts on the Left Over Gaza Ceasefire
Introduction:
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement of Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) marked a significant moment in her journey from outsider to mainstream figure within the Democratic Party. However, her mention of Gaza and Harris’s alleged efforts to end Israel’s war sparked controversy and exposed divisions within the left. This article delves into the implications of Ocasio-Cortez’s speech, the disillusionment of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), and the ongoing debate surrounding U.S.-Israel policy.
Ocasio-Cortez’s Speech and the Gaza Issue:
During her speech at the DNC, Ocasio-Cortez praised Harris’s supposed dedication to securing a ceasefire in Gaza. This claim, however, raised eyebrows, as Harris’s responsibilities do not include U.S. foreign policy. Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now, pointed out that there has been no ceasefire in Gaza despite almost a year of conflict. Ocasio-Cortez’s mention of Gaza highlighted the issue on a national stage, but it also led to criticism and further divisions within the left.
Ilhan Omar’s Criticism and the DSA’s Disillusionment:
Rep. Ilhan Omar, a fellow Squad member, criticized the Biden administration for its failure to recognize the genocidal war in Gaza. While she did not directly respond to Ocasio-Cortez’s speech, she used the phrase “working tirelessly for a ceasefire” to admonish the administration. This statement echoed Ocasio-Cortez’s sentiment but also highlighted the need for stronger action. The DSA, which played a crucial role in Ocasio-Cortez’s rise, withdrew its endorsement of her due to her stance on Gaza. The DSA expected Ocasio-Cortez to demonstrate a higher level of commitment to Palestinian liberation, which they felt was lacking.
Compromises and Political Capital:
The divisions within the left regarding Ocasio-Cortez’s speech reflect a broader question in politics: the compromises necessary to gain power and effect change. Ahmed Husain, a member of the DSA’s national political committee, expressed disappointment in Ocasio-Cortez’s failure to label the situation in Gaza as a genocide. He argued that her absorption into the political establishment reinforced disillusionment among those who saw her as an insurgent against the establishment. However, Husain emphasized that alternatives can always be built to bring about change.
Progressives’ Pragmatism and U.S.-Israel Policy:
Some progressives defended Ocasio-Cortez and others like Sen. Raphael Warnock for their pragmatic approach to U.S.-Israel policy. With two Squad members losing their primaries after being targeted by the pro-Israel group AIPAC, Ocasio-Cortez and Warnock were credited for their positions on the issue. Hassan El-Tayyab, legislative director for Middle East policy at the Friends Committee on National Legislation, highlighted the strong applause Ocasio-Cortez and Warnock received for their calls for a Gaza ceasefire at the DNC. This support reflects the majority of Democrats’ desire to end the violence.
Watered-Down Ceasefire Calls and Human Rights Advocacy:
Since Ocasio-Cortez’s speech, the term “ceasefire” has been co-opted and watered down by Democrats to refer to a hostage exchange, rather than an end to Israeli bombings. Human rights advocates argue that this approach falls short and call for an immediate ceasefire and arms embargo. Whitson expressed embarrassment that conversations about the human rights situation in Gaza are seen as progress, emphasizing the need for concrete action.
Conclusion:
Ocasio-Cortez’s DNC speech and the subsequent reactions from Ilhan Omar, the DSA, and progressives highlight the ongoing debate over U.S.-Israel policy and the divisions within the left. While some view Ocasio-Cortez’s pragmatic approach as necessary for political capital, others criticize her for not taking a stronger stance on Gaza. Ultimately, the conversation surrounding the Gaza ceasefire underscores the need for tangible action to protect civilians and reach a lasting resolution.
