Controversy Erupts as Rep. Jayapal Faces Criticism for Response to Hamas' Sexual Violence

Rep. Pramila Jayapal faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans after calling for "balanced" criticism of the Israel-Hamas war when asked about progressives' alleged silence on Hamas rapes of Israeli women. Jayapal condemned the sexual violence but quickly shifted the conversation to Israel's actions and accusations of non-compliance with international humanitarian law. CNN host Dana Bash pushed back, emphasizing the need to address the issue of Hamas' sexual assaults. Jayapal's deflection was condemned on social media, with critics arguing that she minimized the seriousness of rape and victim-blamed.