UCLA student criticizes 'Squad' for promoting anti-Israel activism: They should feel "ashamed"

Some students have criticized Rep. Rashida Tlaib and Rep. Ilhan Omar, both of whom are members of the "Squad," for allegedly "glorifying" acts of antisemitism during anti-Israel demonstrations on American college campuses.

"Eli Tsives, a UCLA student, expressed his disapproval of the "Squad" on "America Reports" Thursday, stating that every member should feel ashamed of themselves and that it is a shame they are in government. He called for action to be taken."

On Thursday, the House Education Committee questioned leaders from Northwestern, Rutgers, and UCLA about the growing antisemitism on their campuses and others nationwide.

Since last month, anti-Israel protests have been taking place at schools represented on Thursday, with UCLA experiencing more than 200 arrests in May when police in riot gear cleared out an anti-Israel encampment on the campus.

Rep. Omar targeted UCLA Chancellor Gene Block and the campus violence during the hearing, while also defending anti-Israel protesters as peaceful.

Rep. Omar stated that what is even more appalling is that the incident was completely preventable. By protecting the diverse groups of pro-Palestinian students who were peacefully gathered on campus to share meals and stand in solidarity against a brutal genocide, the incident could have been prevented. Additionally, the students' First Amendment right to assemble could have been protected.

"An angry mob has taken over a peaceful protest gathering, and you should feel ashamed."

Tsives, who was prevented from strolling on a UCLA campus trail by masked demonstrators, condemned the lawmakers for disseminating false information about Israel and promoting the glorification of the encampment and the pro-Hamas and anti-Semitic discourse that has been taking place across the United States.

In Washington, D.C., Rep. Tlaib defended the protests.

"It is disgraceful that university administrators and government officials are sending militarized police forces to stop students from exercising their First Amendment right on college campuses throughout our country," she said. "I am proud of the brave students and faculty from all different backgrounds who are standing up against the crackdown and violent repression of First Amendment protected speech and assembly."

Many university leaders, politicians, and students have condemned the increasingly violent demonstrations on college campuses, despite Rep. Omar and Rep. Tlaib's defense.

""Jewish students are increasingly concerned about their safety due to the formation of new encampments near Kirchhoff Hall," Tsives said."

"Whenever an illegal encampment forms, UCLA and other college administrations across America must call upon the police force to make arrests or threaten expulsion for these students."

Planet Chronicle' Emma Colton contributed to this report.