The slogan “Death to America” is seemingly gaining steam among anti-Israel agitators, who have swept across the nation in recent weeks. The anti-Israel demonstrations that have spread across the country have taken on an anti-American tenor, with students at the University of Michigan participating in protests and being given pamphlets titled “10 anarchist theses on Palestine solidarity in the United States,” which included a page that stated, “Freedom for Palestine means Death to America.”
The protests have continued to gain momentum, leading to multiple days-long “encampments” at some of the most elite colleges and universities in the United States. Similar slogans were chanted in nearby Dearborn, Michigan, during a recent rally on the last Friday of Ramadan.
Activists associated with the Hadi institute led rallygoers in chants of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel,” citing Imam Khomeini’s declaration of International Al-Quds Day as inspiration for their actions.
The protests have been linked to a Hamas terrorist attack on Israel in October, with experts noting a shift in support for Israel among top Democrats as a contributing factor. The chants of “Death to America” and “We are Hamas” have been heard at various demonstrations, sparking controversy and concern.
President Biden recently held a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, threatening a change in U.S. policy toward Gaza if Israel does not do more to protect civilians during the conflict. This move followed pressure from activists in Dearborn and other groups calling for a cease-fire and a halt to U.S. weapons shipments to Israel.
The anti-Israel sentiment has also caught the attention of the Michigan legislature, with Republican State Rep. Phil Green highlighting a political divide on the issue. Green noted that while Republicans are united in their support for Israel and opposition to terrorism, the Democratic caucus is split on the issue.
Overall, the rhetoric coming out of Dearborn and other areas has raised concerns about the influence of anti-Israel and anti-American views, particularly among young Americans. Experts warn of the dangers of such sentiments and the need to address and counteract extremist messaging.
