Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), a prominent member of the progressive “Squad,” is facing heavy criticism after a controversial tweet regarding the escalating Middle East conflict. On Tuesday, Pressley posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, denouncing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s military actions.
Her tweet, which stated, “Netanyahu’s invasion of Lebanon is putting millions of people at risk, forcing thousands to be displaced, and inciting a regional war,” sparked a wave of backlash as it appeared while Israel was responding to missile attacks from Iran.
The post, possibly scheduled well in advance, was published just moments before a full-scale Iranian missile assault on Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Pressley’s post quickly went viral and drew significant pushback from critics who accused her of downplaying the severity of Iran’s aggression.
Netanyahu’s invasion of Lebanon is putting millions of people at risk, forcing thousands to be displaced, and inciting a regional war.
The escalating violence must end. In Lebanon, in Gaza, and across the region.
— Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (@RepPressley) October 1, 2024
Pro-life advocate Kristan Hawkins was among those who slammed the congresswoman, posting, “WHEN PRE-SCHEDULED TWEETS GO WRONG,” in reference to the ill-timed nature of Pressley’s remarks.
WHEN PRE-SCHEDULED TWEETS GO WRONG
— Kristan Hawkins (@KristanHawkins) October 1, 2024
Another user, Chloe (@ChloesPlanet), mocked the congresswoman by noting the incongruity of her tweet with the reality on the ground: “Nice timing on the tweet as Iran is launching ballistic missiles.”
Nice timing on the tweet as Iran is launching ballistic missiles.
— 🇺🇸 Chloe 🇺🇸 (@ChloesPlanet) October 1, 2024
The congresswoman, who has often been vocal about her support for Palestinian rights, appeared to condemn Israel’s self-defense measures without acknowledging the missile attacks that prompted the military response. Her office has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the backlash.
Iran’s aggressive move came in response to Israel’s extensive military operations in Lebanon, which involved the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and a ground invasion into the southern regions of Lebanon.
REACTIONS:
Any comment about the missiles falling on Israel right now?
— NotYourJewishMom (@CaffMomREDACTED) October 1, 2024
Evil witch.
— Dave Rubin (@RubinReport) October 1, 2024
Any comment about the missiles falling on Israel right now?
— NotYourJewishMom (@CaffMomREDACTED) October 1, 2024
Your timing is purposeful.
— Eli Lebowicz (@EliLebowicz) October 1, 2024
Oh goody, a member of the H*m*s caucus has thoughts…
— Ironhead841 (@Mt2Aguy) October 1, 2024
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