House approves resolution condemning pro-Palestianian chant as antisemitic

The House of Representatives passed a resolution on Tuesday to condemn a popular Palestinian rallying cry as “antisemitic.”

The resolution condemned the chant “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” in a 377-44-1 vote, with progressive Democrats making up most of the measure's detractors. The chant has featured prominently at pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the country. 

Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie was the sole Republican to vote against the resolution, according to the Hill, and Democratic Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean voted “present” on the resolution. 

Dean slammed the chant in a post on X after the vote, but said she decided to abstain because “Republicans prefer games over bills to support our allies & humanitarian aid. We must be purposeful with our words — and also with our time.”

Democratic New York Rep. Gregory Meeks, meanwhile, said he had to vote in favor of the legislation because he believed the phrase was antisemitic, but claimed the resolution was an attempt to divide the House Democrats.

“While I’m not really happy that we have to consider this resolution, I do believe it was brought here, fortunately by my colleagues on the other side of the aisle in an attempt to divide this house,” Meeks said in a floor speech. “I also know the danger of the phrase in question. That is why the resolution actually has my begrudging support. But in this institution you have to do what you think is the best thing to do, the right thing to do, that’s why I support this resolution and encourage colleagues to join in doing the same.” 

Among the measure's detractors were members of the far-left "Squad," including New York Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Jamaal Bowman; Missouri Democratic Rep. Cori Bush, and Michigan Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib. 

Tlaib, who is of Palestinian background, has been a prominent supporter of the chant and attracted bipartisan backlash after invoking it in a social media post. 

"From the river to the sea is an aspirational call for freedom, human rights, and peaceful coexistence, not death, destruction, or hate. My work and advocacy is always centered in justice and dignity for all people no matter faith or ethnicity," Tlaib posted to X in November.

Her support of the chant eventually led to her censure later that month.