Texas Reps React to Jayapal's Comments on Hamas' Assaults

Texas Representatives recently reacted to Washington Representative Pramila Jayapal's (D) comments on Hamas' raping of Israeli women.

Rep. Jayapal came under fire after a tense interview with CNN anchor Dana Bash. In the interview, Bash questioned the Washington representative about the Progressive Caucus' response to the accounts of Hamas sexually assaulting Israeli women during the Israel-Hamas war.

The congresswoman stated that she had previously condemned Hamas and continued to highlight the conditions of Palestinians in Gaza, much to Bash's ire. However, more controversy arose as Rep. Jayapal used the word "tool" to describe Hamas' use of rape.

“I think we always talk about the impact of war on women in particular … I’ve condemned what Hamas has done. I’ve condemned the actions absolutely — the rape, of course,” said Rep. Jayapal.

“With respect, I was just asking you about the women and you turned it back to Israel. I’m asking you about Hamas,” said Bash after the representative began to discuss Israel.

Rep. Jayapal responded, “I already answered your question, Dana,”

“I said it’s horrific and I think that rape is horrific. Sexual assault is horrific. I think that it happens in war situations, terrorist organizations like Hamas obviously are using these as tools.”

The Washington congresswoman's terminology caused a strong response from Texas lawmakers and led to more bold condemnations of Hamas' use of sexual assault from Democratic representatives.

Texas Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (R) criticized Rep. Jayapal's comments, calling them "disgusting".

"I was shocked and appalled to hear @RepJayapal justify the rape and torture of Israeli women by calling it a “tool” of war. This is disgusting and I strongly condemn her remarks," said Texas Representative Beth Van Duyne (R).

In a tweet, Texas Representative Veronica Escobar (D) released a statement showing her stance against sexual assault and Hamas' use of it against Israeli women.

"We must all condemn — in the strongest possible terms — the dehumanizing attacks against women who were violently sexually assaulted by Hamas. Gender-based violence is horrific and the trauma for survivors is unyielding. Women’s suffering should never be used as a weapon of war," said Rep. Escobar.