Israel formally declared war on Hamas following a series of deadly attacks originating from Gaza, resulting in a reported death toll exceeding 1,100 people, including more than 700 in Israel and over 400 in Gaza. President Joe Biden promised additional U.S. support for the Israeli Defense Forces during a phone call with Prime Minister Netanyahu.

This outbreak of violence marks the deadliest day in Israel in decades, raising concerns and prompting responses from members of Michigan’s congressional delegation.

U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Detroit), of Palestinian descent, has been one of the most vocal critics of Israel. In her statement, she grieved the loss of both Palestinian and Israeli lives, emphasizing the need to end the occupation and dismantle what she termed the “apartheid system.” She called for the lifting of the blockade and stressed that recognizing the reality of living under siege, occupation, and apartheid is essential.

Tlaib’s statement received criticism from some Democratic and Republican lawmakers who characterized the attacks as acts of terrorism and emphasized the need to condemn them. U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) urged Tlaib to condemn the attack on Israel, while State Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) highlighted that Hamas violence prevents peace in the region.

Tlaib had planned to hold a press conference in Detroit but postponed it to call on the Biden administration and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to investigate detainment and property confiscation of Americans at Michigan ports of entry.

Other members of Michigan’s congressional delegation expressed support for Israel and condemned Hamas. U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Zeeland) emphasized the need to stand with Israel. U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) condemned the attack as a violation of international law, and U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit) expressed concern.

U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.) called for President Biden to hold the perpetrators of the attack accountable and ensure there is no division between the United States and Israel.

Senators Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Twp.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing) also expressed their condemnation of the attacks and reiterated their support for Israel.