A year after the devastating Hamas attack on Israel that claimed the lives of over 1,200 people, including 46 American citizens, Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio) has taken aim at the Biden-Harris administration for its perceived inaction in securing the release of hostages. During a memorial rally in Washington, D.C., Vance delivered a scathing critique of the administration’s handling of the crisis, urging Vice President Kamala Harris to “use your authority to help bring them home.”
The October 7, 2022 attack, which saw Hamas terrorists launch a brutal assault on Israel, resulted in the capture of approximately 250 hostages. Despite ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of those held captive, over 100 people, including several Americans, remain in Hamas custody.
Vance, a staunch supporter of Israel, pointedly criticized the administration’s response, declaring it “disgraceful” that they have “not done a thing.” He also expressed concern about Vice President Harris’s ambiguous statements on Israel during a recent interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes,” describing her response as “word salad.”
In stark contrast to the administration’s perceived lack of commitment, Vance pledged unwavering support for Israel, echoing former President Donald Trump’s stance. He emphasized that a Trump-Vance administration would prioritize the safety of American Jews, “stop funding anti-American and anti-Jewish radicals,” and actively work to bring home American hostages from any location and regardless of their captors.
“We want to give Israel the right and the ability to finish what Hamas started. Israel didn’t start this. Hamas did. But Israel is going to finish it,” Vance asserted.
This impassioned rhetoric comes amidst heightened tensions following the Hamas attack and ongoing military operations in Gaza. Israel has pledged to eliminate Hamas and secure the return of its citizens taken hostage, while Hamas has been accused of using civilians as human shields. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, which does not distinguish between militants and civilians.
