'Where Are Our Progressive Friends?': MN Dem Speaks On Israel

MINNETONKA, MN — U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips is publicly dismayed by the lack of support from progressives and fellow Democrats for Israeli citizens after their nation suffered an unprecedented terrorist attack at the hands of Hamas.

Phillips is one of the more outspoken Democrats supporting Israel in the U.S. House. But he suggests there has been a troubling lack of sympathy and support for the Jewish people from liberal activists and politicians in the wake of the terrorist attack.

"There are 158 Christian majority nations, 49 Muslim, & only 1 Jewish - created after 6 million Jews were exterminated just 8 decades ago," Phillips wrote in a statement on X. "And that one, tiny nation is constantly attacked, so please open your hearts."

"Where are our progressive friends?" he said in another.

Phillips also condemned Hamas for refusing to release the Israeli civilians it captured. Israel has cut off power to Gaza and said it won't be restored until it releases the hostages.

"Imagine being in a position to restore electricity, fuel, food, and water to 2,000,000 people by simply releasing 150 innocent people you just kidnapped," Phillips said. "That’s the choice Hamas is facing, and their decision will likely to affirm they’re the enemy of Israelis AND Palestinians."

Phillips' congressional district shares a border with Rep. Ilhan Omar, who is among Israel's strongest critics in Congress. Omar has spoken out against Israel's retaliatory strikes against Hamas and its policies in the occupied territories.

Omar also shared an opinion article on social media that claims Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, bears responsibility for the Israel-Gaza war.

Phillips came out against Omar's positions in an interview on CNN Wednesday.