Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey faced a chorus of disapproval at a rally in support of Israel when he advocated for reducing tensions in the Middle East region.
Speaking at Boston Common on Monday, Markey’s call for a “de-escalation of violence” was met with boos from some in the crowd. He expressed empathy, acknowledging the deep ties that many in the audience had with Israel and the suffering experienced by loved ones in the conflict.
He said, “Many of you have family in Israel now, and many more have loved ones who have endured brutal conflicts to secure the continued existence of the Jewish state—we share your sorrow.”
His remarks followed a recent aggressive and devastating attack on Israel by Hamas militants, resulting in significant civilian casualties and the abduction of bystanders and soldiers as hostages.
In response, Israel launched airstrikes and declared a state of war, leading to a reported death toll of over 1,600 people, according to the Associated Press.
At the rally, Senator Markey found himself in opposition to another member of his delegation, Representative Jake Auchincloss, who was against the ongoing conflict. Auchincloss received loud cheers from the audience when he declared that de-escalation was “impossible.”
A spokesperson for Congressman Auchincloss clarified that these remarks had been prepared in advance and were not a direct response to Senator Markey’s statements.
The differing views between Markey and Auchincloss are not new. Senator Markey had called for de-escalation as early as Saturday when the Hamas attacks began, pushing Israel into a full-scale war.
In contrast, Auchincloss had referred to these calls as “premature” and had urged the United States to support Israel in light of recent developments.
“This is not a situation where both sides are equally responsible; calls for de-escalation are untimely,” Auchincloss said. “The United States did not seek de-escalation after Pearl Harbor. Israel needs the military flexibility to reestablish deterrence and eliminate terrorist elements in Gaza.”
During a televised appearance on Boston 25 News, Auchincloss added, “What Israel requires from U.S. policymakers is not a ‘both sides’ approach that suggests both parties should lay down their arms. No, one side initiated this attack. One side caused civilian casualties. The other side is working to restore peace and security, and the U.S. must clarify that we stand with Israel in this situation.”
In contrast, a day before Israel officially declared war, Senator Markey stated on Saturday, “I condemn this atrocious attack on Israel and am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of civilian lives. We must do everything possible to de-escalate the violence, engage in diplomacy, and prevent further bloodshed. A war between Israel and Palestine would be catastrophic.”