Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., declined to state whether any attacks against Israel on October 7 could be justified, even when specifically asked by journalist Jeremy Scahill if Palestinians had a right to kill Israeli soldiers. The exchange occurred during a livestream event hosted by Drop Site News.
Scahill, referencing Khanna's recent claims of being detained by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, questioned the congressman's stance on accountability and the ongoing conflict. Scahill appeared to argue that the initial October 7 attacks, which targeted military bases, could be justified as actions against occupying forces.
"Do Palestinians have a right to kill Israeli soldiers, Congressman? On October 7, when they attacked the military bases in the Gaza envelope, did the Al-Qassam Brigades and Saraya al-Quds have a right to kill Israeli soldiers? Yes or no?" Scahill asked.
Khanna responded, "I mean, I think October 7's attack was a terrorist attack, so I don't justify it." He further elaborated that he was not for violence and advocated for ending the Israeli occupation, but reiterated, "No, I'm not going to say that Hamas had a right to attack Israeli soldiers or kill Israelis. I don't think that advances peace or advances Palestinian statehood."
Despite this refusal, Scahill continued to press Khanna, accusing him of holding a double standard. "It's a double standard. You're saying there are ways that Israel should be able to kill Palestinians, but there is never a condition under which Palestinians can attack armed uniformed soldiers of a force that is still considered an occupying force under international law," Scahill stated.
Khanna has been among a group of Democratic politicians who have voiced criticism of Israel's actions in the conflict. The issue has emerged as a significant political point among Democrats.