In a surprising turn of events, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent speech, only to later express shock at the presence of "disturbing" pro-Hamas cheers during anti-Israel protests.

Following Netanyahu's address to a joint session of Congress, Senator Murphy, a representative from Connecticut, voiced his concerns about the speech. He believed that it was more focused on U.S. politics rather than providing a path forward for Israeli and U.S. security. Murphy specifically objected to Netanyahu's suggestion that any American who voiced objections to Israel's actions in Gaza was a Hamas sympathizer.

As thousands of anti-Israel protesters gathered in Washington, D.C. in response to Netanyahu's speech, tensions escalated. Protesters claimed Israel's response to the terror group Hamas had been disproportionate and had resulted in numerous civilian casualties. However, amidst the crowd, one demonstrator carrying what appeared to be the flag of Hamas was filmed by Fox News. Furthermore, chants of "allahu Akbar" and a disturbing act of burning an American flag took place near Union Station.

To add to the complexity of the situation, the protesters also took down an American flag and replaced it with a Palestinian flag. They chanted "Free Palestine" and used the phrase "From the river to the sea," which is considered antisemitic as it advocates for the elimination of Israel.

Netanyahu, in his speech, targeted what he referred to as "many anti-Israel protesters," stating that they had chosen to align themselves with evil. He accused these individuals of standing with Hamas, rapists, and murderers. The prime minister recounted the horrifying story of a family being murdered, including two babies hidden in a secret attic, linking it to the protesters' support for Hamas.

Hours later, as images of the anti-Israel protests circulated, Senator Murphy criticized the pro-Hamas sentiment he witnessed. Expressing his support for Americans exercising their First Amendment rights, he asserted that pro-Hamas cheers and messages of hate had no place in the country.

However, this apparent contrast in statements drew criticism from some conservatives online. They pointed out that Murphy should not have been surprised by the presence of Hamas sympathizers at the protests and questioned his knowledge as an international security expert.

Fox News Digital reached out to Senator Murphy's office for comment on the matter, but there has been no response at the time of writing.

It remains to be seen how this incident will impact the ongoing discussions surrounding Israel and Hamas, as well as the debate over freedom of speech and the line between legitimate protest and extremist sympathies.