Cornell University Professor Russell Rickford’s recent praise of Hamas’ Oct. 7 terrorist attacks in Israel has sparked outrage among critics who see his remarks as promoting violence and supporting terrorist organizations.
During a rally in Ithaca, New York, Rickford described the attacks as “energizing” and “exhilarating”, calling Hamas’ actions a shift in power that punctured the illusion of invincibility of the Israeli government. This kind of language not only undermines the severity of the attacks, but also shows a disturbing lack of empathy for the innocent lives lost and the ongoing violence that plagues the region.
As a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, Rickford is no stranger to controversial views. But his words at this rally crossed a line, as he seemed to justify the killing of over 1,200 people by Hamas. This kind of rhetoric is not only irresponsible, but also dangerous, as it can fuel further violence and justify terrorist acts.
Rickford’s statement that the attacks were “exhilarating” is deeply troubling. To find joy in the death and destruction of fellow human beings is a sign of moral corruption and twisted ideology. It is disappointing to see a professor, who is supposed to educate and guide young minds, promoting such callous and inhumane attitudes.
Not only did Rickford endorse the actions of Hamas, but he also shifted the blame for the attacks onto Israel, claiming that they were the ones responsible. This is a flawed and dangerous argument. No matter what political or ideological differences may exist, there is never any justification for targeting innocent civilians. To try and rationalize such actions only serves to perpetuate violence and hatred.
It is also troubling to see the crowd at the rally chanting phrases like “From the river to the sea, Palestine will soon be free”. This slogan, often used by Hamas and other extremist groups, promotes the idea of eliminating Israel completely, disregarding its right to exist as a sovereign nation. Such rhetoric only fuels the ongoing conflict and hinders any chance for peace in the region.
Hamas’ actions and Rickford’s words not only incite violence, but also demonstrate a dangerous trend among some liberals who seem to have sympathy for radical terrorist groups. This is not a political issue, but a moral one. Terrorists who target innocent civilians should not be praised or glorified, but condemned in the strongest terms.
For full context, here is the entire video of Cornell University Professor Russell Rickford speaking about Hamas terrorist attacks. Thanks to @nnn_Netanel_nnn for sharing. pic.twitter.com/6ApgIq38BR
— Sam Aberman (@samaberman) October 17, 2023
As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, the response to Hamas’ attacks will “echo for generations”. But let that echo be a call for peace, not a justification for further violence. It is time for all nations and individuals to stand united against terrorism and work towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.