On Sunday, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, expressed her intention to request an FBI investigation into protesters advocating for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Pelosi suggested a possible link between some antiwar demonstrations and Russia during an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union.” According to the former House speaker, she believes that some protesters are “connected” to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that their call for a cease-fire aligns with Putin’s interests.
Pelosi clarified that while some demonstrators may be spontaneous and sincere, she suspects that others may have connections to Russia, emphasizing the need to investigate potential financing ties.
Nancy Pelosi Calls for FBI Investigation into Demonstrators Advocating Gaza Cease-Fire (Credits: Getty Images)
When asked about concerns regarding certain voter groups, such as young people, Arab Americans, and progressives, possibly abstaining from voting for President Joe Biden due to protests at his campaign events, Pelosi acknowledged the presence of protesters at her own house.
She urged a focus on addressing the suffering in conflict areas and expressed concern about foreign adversaries meddling in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
In response to Pelosi’s remarks, a spokesperson for the California Democrat highlighted her support for peaceful protests and her concern about foreign adversaries influencing the election. The spokesperson emphasized Pelosi’s commitment to stopping the suffering in Gaza and called for the release of all hostages.
Pelosi’s comments highlighted a growing division within the Democratic Party, contrasting with statements made by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a progressive member of the “Squad.”
Ocasio-Cortez, during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” attributed ongoing protests at Biden campaign events to young people’s opposition to violence and indiscriminate loss of life. The increase in protests during Biden’s campaign events, particularly related to his support for Israel, has prompted the administration to adopt a new approach to address internal party fractures.
There are discussions within the Biden administration about using weapon sales to Israel as leverage to encourage a reduction in the military assault in the Gaza Strip, according to NBC News.
