Ocasio-Cortez says ‘unconditional’ US aid to Israel ‘enabled a genocide in Gaza’
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) sparked controversy during her attendance at the Munich Security Conference when she criticized the U.S. government’s unconditional aid to Israel in its ongoing conflict with Hamas. Ocasio-Cortez told a Haaretz reporter that this support has effectively “enabled a genocide in Gaza,” drawing sharp reactions and implicating the Biden administration’s Middle East policy. Her remarks came as speculation about her potential 2028 presidential candidacy grew, highlighting the political stakes of her comments.
Ocasio-Cortez’s statement reflects her long-standing criticism of U.S.-Israel relations and her advocacy for Palestinian rights. She has previously called for a reevaluation of American military and financial support to Israel, arguing that it perpetuates conflict in the region. Her latest remarks at the conference underscored her belief that unconditional aid enables Israeli actions that she deems harmful to Palestinians, particularly in Gaza.
The congresswoman’s comments have divided opinions. Supporters applaud her vocal stance on human rights and justice for Palestine, while critics argue her rhetoric oversimplifies a complex conflict and risks alienating moderate voters ahead of potential presidential ambitions. Ocasio-Cortez’s critique also raises questions about the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly under the Biden administration.
This issue matters to readers interested in politics because it touches on critical debates about U.S. involvement in international conflicts and its impact on global stability. Ocasio-Cortez’s remarks highlight the ongoing tensions between human rights advocacy and strategic alliances, offering a window into how domestic politics intersects with international affairs. Her comments also reflect broader discussions about the role of American aid in enabling or perpetuating conflict, making them relevant to anyone following Middle East diplomacy or U.S. political dynamics.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/14/2026