In a recent op-ed published by Penn Live, Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania faced criticism for his support of Israel during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The article, written by Mireille Rebeiz, Chair of Middle East Studies and Associate Professor at Dickinson College, described Fetterman's position as "disturbing."

Since the deadliest escalation in the country's history erupted on October 7, Fetterman has consistently voiced his support for Israel. However, his stance has received both praise and backlash, particularly in his home state of Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state.

In a statement issued two days after the initial attack, Fetterman expressed his unequivocal support for Israel, stating, "The United States has a moral obligation to be in lockstep with our ally as they confront this threat. I also fully support Israel neutralizing the terrorists responsible for this barbarism."

Last week, a viral photo showed Fetterman draped in an Israeli flag during a Washington march of 300,000 people in support of Israel. This image became a focal point in Rebeiz's op-ed, where she questioned the senator's support for a foreign government, specifically Israel's right-wing administration.

Rebeiz argued that Fetterman's position was concerning, as he seemed to disregard the ongoing protests within Israel itself, where citizens expressed their grievances about human rights abuses committed by their own government. Additionally, she highlighted the calls for a ceasefire and the growing concerns over the reported atrocities in Gaza.

The op-ed also drew attention to a perceived double standard, contrasting the consequences faced by Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib for her comments in support of Palestine with Fetterman's support for Israel. Tlaib faced censorship for defending a controversial slogan that some argue promotes the dismantling of the Jewish state, while Fetterman faced no such repercussions for his visible support of a foreign government.

Fetterman's position on the Israel-Hamas conflict has garnered wide attention and subsequent criticism. Veterans protesting in favor of a ceasefire outside the U.S. Capitol on November 9, booed the senator, demonstrating the growing dissatisfaction with his stance. Additionally, Fetterman faced challenges on social media after he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, asserting that now was not the time for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.

Despite the criticism, Fetterman also garnered support for his position, aligning with the majority of the Democratic Party. An op-ed published in the Washington Examiner praised his support for Israel as "courageous" and commended his efforts in combating antisemitism.

Pennsylvania, with its significant Jewish population, has become a focal point of attention during this conflict. Philadelphia, the state's largest city, is reported to have the fifth largest Jewish population in the United States, according to the Center for Israel.

Newsweek has reached out to both Penn Live and Mireille Rebeiz for their remarks on this developing story. In addition, Fetterman has been contacted by email for comment as well.