Survivors of the October 7 attacks filed a lawsuit in U.S. federal court last week, alleging links between Hamas and pro-Palestinian student groups leading nationwide protests against Israel’s war on Gaza. The survivors claim the student groups are liable for monetary damages because of the purported terrorism links.
The Lawsuit and Allegations:
The lawsuit targets the Palestinian advocacy groups American Muslims for Palestine and National Students for Justice in Palestine, accusing them of serving as Hamas’s propaganda division in the United States. The survivors claim that these groups use propaganda to intimidate, convince, and recruit college students to serve as foot soldiers for Hamas on campus and beyond.
Anti-Terrorism Laws and Crackdowns:
The lawsuits rely on anti-terrorism laws that allow for civil cases related to acts of international terrorism. Members of Congress who pushed these laws have directly linked them to crackdowns on pro-Palestine activities. The survivors have also pursued legal action against major media organizations and United Nations agencies in connection with the October 7 attacks.
Survivor Lawsuits:
The nine plaintiffs in the lawsuit include six survivors of the October 7 Hamas attacks. They have filed multiple lawsuits against various entities, including a cryptocurrency exchange accused of providing material support to Hamas. The survivors have also sued news agencies and the U.S. committee of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, alleging financial aid to Hamas.
Crackdown on Student Groups:
Student advocates for Palestine have faced censorship, suspensions, and legal challenges on campuses across the country. Mainstream media outlets have repeated claims that these groups support Hamas, leading to crackdowns by school administrators and law enforcement. Several universities have suspended or banned Students for Justice in Palestine chapters, citing alleged ties to Hamas.
Legal Challenges and Political Pressure:
State-level Republican officials have taken steps to suppress pro-Palestine activism on campuses, with executive orders targeting student groups and free speech policies. Lawsuits have been filed against governors and universities challenging these restrictions. Congress recently adopted a resolution that could further restrict speech related to Israel and Palestine by adopting a controversial definition of antisemitism.
In conclusion, the legal battle between survivors of the October 7 attacks and pro-Palestinian student groups highlights the complex and contentious issues surrounding activism, terrorism allegations, and free speech on college campuses. The outcome of these lawsuits could have far-reaching implications for Palestinian advocacy in the United States and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.