DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – In the halls of Congress, Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), a Palestinian American, has become a prominent voice on international human rights, particularly concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Her recent reintroduction of H.Res.409, recognizing the 77th anniversary of the Nakba and affirming Palestinian refugees’ “rights” underscores her commitment to this cause.

According to the Institute for Middle Eastern Understanding, a pro-Palestinian advocacy organization, Nakba is an Arabic word meaning “catastrophe.” They say the word refers to Israel’s “ethnic cleansing of Palestine, its exiling of Palestinians and making them into refugees, its dispossession of Palestinian property, its destruction of Palestinian cities, towns, and villages, and its attempt to erase the existence of the Palestinian people from its homeland in 1948.”

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Opponents argue that Israel was attacked by five Arab nations (Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq) immediately after it declared independence in May 1948. They say the war was initiated by the Arab side, and Israel fought to defend its existence.

Tlaib marks Nakba Day with accusations of genocide.

Tlaib said in a press release about H.Res.409, “The Nakba never ended. Today we are witnessing the Israeli apartheid regime carry out genocide in Gaza. It is a campaign to erase Palestinians from existence.”

Tlaib went on to say, “War Criminal Netanyahu has threatened to ethnically cleanse the entire Palestinian population in Gaza, annex the land, and permanently occupy it. As we mark the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, we honor all of those killed since the ethnic cleansing of Palestine began, and the Palestinians who were forced from their homes and violently displaced from their land.”

Tlaib devotes much of her time in Congress to advocating for Palestinian causes – time that many believe should be focused on addressing the needs of her Detroit constituents.

Many on X weren’t exactly thrilled with her Gaza-obsessed resolution, reminding her that she swore an oath to America – not Palestine – and suggesting that if her loyalties lie elsewhere, she’s free to leave.

Do as I say, not as I do.

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Tlaib recently made headlines by endorsing State Rep. Donavan McKinney over incumbent Shri Thanedar in Michigan’s 13th District, pointing to his weak record and disconnect from constituents.

Yet critics note that Tlaib herself often seems more focused on advocating for Palestinians abroad than addressing the needs of Detroiters in her own district.

A constant voice for Palestinians.

Tlaib’s advocacy extends beyond legislative measures. She has been vocal in condemning Israeli actions in Gaza, referring to them as “genocide” and accusing both Republicans and Democrats of complicity. Her passionate speeches and public statements have drawn national attention, highlighting the plight of Palestinians. In her latest speech talking about her introduced H.Res.409, she talks about the anti-Palestinan racism of her colleagues.

Navigating political waters.

Tlaib’s positions have not been without political repercussions. Her critiques of U.S. support for Israel have attracted significant opposition, including censure from the House of Representatives. Despite these challenges, Tlaib continues to champion her causes, indicating a steadfast commitment to her principles. Principles that seem more rooted in Ramallah than in Detroit.