What’s happening
Florida Democratic Representative Jared Moskowitz asserted that Iran is funding protests at the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Moskowitz remains a staunch supporter of Israel and backs President Joe Biden and Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.
Why it matters
These statements indicate the involvement of geopolitical players like Iran in U.S. domestic affairs, particularly surrounding the highly sensitive issue of Israel-Palestine relations, an important point for American foreign policy.
What they’re saying
“Everyone has a right to protest, but there are also professional agitators involved,” Moskowitz informed The Daily Mail. “We know that the Iranians are paying people to do this. How come they weren’t protesting at the other convention, just here? And so look, this is an extension of the campus protests.”
The Big Picture
On Monday, dozens of protesters managed to break through part of the security fence surrounding the DNC, resulting in the dispatch of riot police, according to a Reuters Television witness. CNN further reported that four protesters were arrested and another detained.
President Joe Biden acknowledged the pro-Palestinian protesters at the DNC, stating that “they have a point,” but emphasizing that any suffering in Gaza is primarily the fault of Hamas.
“I want a ceasefire in exchange for the hostages. Hamas won’t agree to that because they want to remain in power. And so, look, they have a right to protest. They don’t have a right to violence,” Moskowitz emphasized.
Why it matters for U.S.-Israel Relations
Addressing concerns that Kamala Harris might advocate policies detrimental to Israel, Moskowitz assured, “You know, people are trying to put that out there, but there has been no shift in policy, none. In fact, if you go look at the platform, it’s almost the identical platform as it’s been in the past, the DNC platform.”
“It’s one of the most pro-Israel platforms that we’ve had. And so I don’t expect any shift from the Vice President on Israel policies,” Moskowitz concluded.
What’s Next
The unfolding situation highlights ongoing tensions and the crucial role of international influence on American political processes, especially regarding U.S. support for Israel amid escalating protests.
This story was first published on jpost.com.