Michigan Senate Candidate Calls Israel 'Not Our Friend'

Abdul El-Sayed, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, has sparked controversy with his strong criticism of Israel, stating the nation can no longer be considered an ally of the United States. In an interview with ABC News on Monday, El-Sayed questioned the nature of the U.S.-Israel relationship, remarking, "An ally that takes your money to push you into wars you shouldn't be fighting is not an ally." He likened Israel to a friend who repeatedly borrows money, speaks behind one's back, and draws them into conflicts. "I think it's time that we realize that Israel is not really our friend," he concluded.

These remarks come amid existing criticism directed at El-Sayed concerning alleged ties between some of his family members and controversial organizations. The Jerusalem Post reported that his sister-in-law, Miriam Jukaku, was mentioned in a legal case involving federal counter-terrorism watch lists during the Obama administration. El-Sayed has denied accusations against him, asserting that the system unfairly targets individuals based on their names or origins. He has also faced questions about alleged family connections to the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, though no personal involvement has been established.

El-Sayed's stances have raised concerns among some American Jewish officials as the November midterm elections approach. Rabbis and community leaders have urged the Democratic Party to adopt "non-negotiable" principles to ensure the safety of American Jews. In Michigan, his comments are exacerbating divisions over U.S. support for Israel, which has become a contentious issue within the Democratic Party.