Cornel West and Melina Abdullah Refuse to Condemn Hamas in Recent Interviews

The independent presidential candidates express strong pro-Palestinian views, framing recent attacks as a response to long-standing conflicts.

Cornel West describes the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel as a 'counter-terrorist' response, suggesting it was a reaction to longstanding issues.
Melina Abdullah, West's running mate, supports pro-Palestinian stances and criticizes the framing of questions about condemning Hamas.
Both candidates emphasize the need for a permanent ceasefire and criticize the Israeli military's actions in the region.
West aims to attract Muslim Americans and progressive voters dissatisfied with current U.S. foreign policy.
The candidates' remarks come amid a broader campaign focus on the Israel-Gaza conflict and a call to end the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.