In a recent turn of events, Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has called for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. Pelosi criticized Netanyahu for the security failures that led to the surprise assault, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 people, including 33 Americans.

During an interview with Irish outlet RTÉ on Monday, Pelosi expressed her belief that Netanyahu has been an "obstacle" to peace in the Middle East. She questioned whether he is afraid of peace, incapable of achieving it, or simply does not desire it. Pelosi further stated, "He's been a problem."

Pelosi's statement echoes similar sentiments expressed by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in a speech on March 14. Schumer, the highest-ranked elected Jewish official in the US, expressed that the Netanyahu government no longer meets the needs of Israel after the Oct. 7 attack. Pelosi praised Schumer's remarks as an act of courage and love for Israel at the time.

Despite her criticism of Netanyahu, Pelosi emphasized that Israel remains a friend and supporting the nation is in the United States' national security interest. She condemned the violent actions of Hamas and highlighted the passage of a $26.38 billion assistance package for Israel in the lower chamber on Saturday.

Pelosi also addressed the ongoing protests against President Joe Biden's handling of the Middle East conflict. While she acknowledged the sincerity of many demonstrators and the organic nature of the protests, she also suggested a "Russian tinge" in their motives.

Biden, according to Pelosi, has been a strong advocate for humanitarian assistance and has called for a ceasefire. She highlighted that at this point, it is Hamas that is resisting the ceasefire, reminding the audience that Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by the United States.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has exposed a divide within the Democratic Party, raising concerns among party insiders that it could have repercussions on the upcoming Nov. 5 elections. Pelosi's rare praise for House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, for his efforts in passing foreign aid packages for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, was also noted.

The growing rift between Democrats and Netanyahu highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the Middle East conflict and the differing perspectives within the US political landscape. As discussions continue, the political fallout and its impact on US-Israel relations remain to be seen.