Sen. Lindsey Graham: Turkey Becoming “The Squad” of NATO

Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator from South Carolina, expressed his concern about Turkey’s recent actions and compared the country to “The Squad” within NATO. Graham made this statement on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The Squad

“The Squad” refers to a group of progressive Democrat U.S. House members, including Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamal Bowman, Cori Bush, and Ayanna Pressley.

Turkey’s Actions

Graham criticized Turkey’s senior leadership for declaring Israel a war criminal in its fight against Hamas terrorists. This move is seen as disappointing and destabilizing within NATO.

Progressive Criticism

Some members of “The Squad” have openly criticized Israel’s government since the surprise attack launched by Hamas on October 7. Rashida Tlaib, known for her anti-Israel comments, claimed that the cycle of violence will continue as long as the U.S. supports Israel financially.

Doubts and Discrediting

Tlaib also questioned the findings of the Israeli and U.S. governments regarding an airstrike at a hospital in Gaza. She accused them of misleading the public about war crimes and discredited their conclusion that the explosion was caused by a misfired rocket from Gaza.

Turkish President’s Statements

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed a crowd in Istanbul, stating that Israel is a war criminal. He announced preparations to declare Israel as such, leading to Israel recalling its diplomats from Turkey for a reevaluation of relations.

Shifting Support

Initially denouncing the violence and deaths caused by Hamas, Turkey changed its stance after Israel’s response. Erdogan started referring to Hamas terrorists as “freedom fighters.”

The Casualties

The ongoing conflict between Gaza and Israel since October 7 has resulted in over 8,700 casualties, including deaths and injuries. Many people have also been taken hostage by Hamas, experiencing rape, torture, and murder.