Fact Check: "Gillibrand's statements focus solely on Israeli suffering."
What We Know
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has made several public statements regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, particularly in the context of hostages and ceasefire agreements. In her statement on a ceasefire and hostage release deal dated January 15, 2025, she expressed relief over the agreement and emphasized the suffering of families in Israel, stating, "Families in Israel can now begin the painful process of healing and rebuilding what Hamas so brutally took from them on October 7th, 2023" (Gillibrand Statement On Ceasefire). She also mentioned the need to ensure the agreement is fulfilled for the security and wellbeing of both Israelis and Gazans, albeit with a stronger emphasis on Israeli concerns.
In another statement regarding the deaths of six hostages in Gaza, Gillibrand expressed devastation and horror, particularly focusing on the Israeli-American victim, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, and stated, "My heart is with their families and loved ones today" (Gillibrand Statement On Deaths Of Six Hostages). This statement again highlights her focus on the impact of the conflict on Israeli families.
However, critics have pointed out that her public comments often lack acknowledgment of Palestinian suffering. For instance, a report from Jacobin argues that Gillibrand's statements rarely address the scale of Palestinian casualties, which, according to the report, has been significantly higher than Israeli casualties during the conflict (Jacobin). The report claims that her rhetoric tends to focus on Israeli suffering while neglecting the broader humanitarian crisis affecting Palestinians.
Analysis
The claim that Gillibrand's statements focus solely on Israeli suffering is partially supported by her public statements, which indeed emphasize the plight of Israeli families and hostages. However, it is essential to consider the context and content of her remarks. While she does mention the wellbeing of both Gazans and Israelis, critics argue that these mentions are often minimal and overshadowed by her more detailed expressions of concern for Israeli victims (Jacobin).
The reliability of the sources is mixed. Gillibrand's official statements are primary sources that reflect her views and priorities as a senator. However, the critique from Jacobin, while providing a counterpoint, may carry a bias given its leftist perspective and focus on social justice issues. This potential bias should be considered when evaluating the claim.
Furthermore, the absence of significant public statements from Gillibrand addressing Palestinian suffering or condemning Israeli actions raises questions about the balance in her rhetoric. Critics highlight that her focus on Israeli hostages and casualties is disproportionate compared to the scale of Palestinian suffering, which has been substantial during the conflict (Jacobin).
Conclusion
Verdict: False. While it is accurate to say that Gillibrand's statements prominently feature Israeli suffering, the assertion that her remarks focus solely on this aspect is misleading. She does acknowledge the wellbeing of both Gazans and Israelis in her statements, albeit with a stronger emphasis on Israeli concerns. However, the criticism regarding her lack of attention to Palestinian suffering is valid and highlights a significant imbalance in her public rhetoric.
