KJP declines to criticize Jayapal: ‘I represent the President, she must speak for herself.
White House Press Secretary Refuses to Condemn Rep. Jayapal’s Controversial Remarks
For the second time in as many days, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre faced criticism for her refusal to call out Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) over her controversial comments regarding Hamas terrorists’ use of rape and sexual violence as weapons of war against Israeli women.
During an appearance on ABC’s “The View,” Jean-Pierre was questioned about the reports of Hamas engaging in widespread rape and sexual violence during the October 7 massacre. Despite being pressed by the show’s co-hosts, Jean-Pierre avoided directly addressing Jayapal’s remarks.
WATCH:
White House @PressSec Karine Jean-Pierre discusses the administration’s ongoing conversations with Israel and condemns reports of Hamas engaging in rape and sexual violence: “When you use rape as a form of a weapon of war, that’s reprehensible.” pic.twitter.com/dpeOYhlZjg
— The View (@TheView) December 5, 2023
When asked about Jayapal’s comments on CNN’s ”State of the Union,” Jean-Pierre deflected, stating that she speaks for the president and cannot speak on behalf of Jayapal. However, she reiterated the White House’s condemnation of Hamas’ brutality and emphasized the reprehensibility of using rape as a weapon of war.
The co-hosts continued to press Jean-Pierre, questioning whether Jayapal should clarify her remarks and if the White House supports a resolution condemning the use of rape in war against Israeli women. Jean-Pierre remained steadfast in her response, reiterating that she speaks for the president and that the White House has been clear in denouncing Hamas’ actions.
This is not the first time Jean-Pierre has faced scrutiny for her handling of this issue. During Monday’s White House press briefing, she also avoided commenting on Jayapal’s interview.
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What message does Jean-Pierre’s silence on Rep. Jayapal’s controversial remarks convey to survivors of sexual violence worldwide?
Er 2021 conflict between Israel and Hamas. Co-host Meghan McCain directly asked Jean-Pierre if she condemned the remarks made by Rep. Jayapal, who allegedly defended the use of rape and sexual violence as tools of war by Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
Despite the gravity of the topic and the need for a clear and unequivocal condemnation, Jean-Pierre evaded the question and instead responded with a vague statement about the Biden administration’s commitment to Israel’s security. This evasive response is deeply concerning and raises questions about the White House’s stance on such sensitive issues.
Rape and sexual violence are abhorrent acts that should never be justified or defended under any circumstance. These acts are not only a violation of basic human rights but also an affront to the principles of international law and the Geneva Conventions. It is therefore the responsibility of leaders in positions of power, such as Rep. Jayapal and the White House Press Secretary, to unequivocally denounce and condemn such actions.
By failing to address Rep. Jayapal’s controversial remarks directly, Jean-Pierre missed an opportunity to demonstrate moral clarity and leadership. This silence not only undermines the credibility of the White House but also sends a troubling message to survivors of sexual violence worldwide.
Furthermore, this incident raises concerns about partisan politics overshadowing basic principles of human rights and international law. It is disappointing that some politicians seem more focused on defending the actions of a terrorist organization than on upholding the dignity and rights of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict.
As a democratic nation that values human rights and freedom, the United States has a moral obligation to stand up against any form of violence and injustice, regardless of the perpetrators. The silence from the White House on Rep. Jayapal’s remarks questions the commitment of the Biden administration to these core values.
In times of crisis, it is crucial for leaders to provide clear guidance and set a moral example for their citizens and the international community. By refusing to condemn Rep. Jayapal’s controversial remarks, Jean-Pierre’s response only adds confusion and undermines the global fight against sexual violence.
Moving forward, the White House must address this issue with the seriousness it deserves. A clear and unambiguous condemnation of Rep. Jayapal’s remarks is not only necessary to restore confidence in the administration’s commitment to human rights and international law but also to send a strong message to the world that the United States stands firmly against any form of violence, especially against women.
It is our hope that the White House will rectify this situation promptly and reaffirm its unwavering support for the values that our nation holds dear. In condemning Rep. Jayapal’s controversial remarks, the White House must make it clear that the use of rape and sexual violence as weapons of war is an indefensible act that deserves our unequivocal condemnation. Only then can we hope to build a world free from the horrors of such atrocities.
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