House Republican dons Israeli uniform in solidarity amid ongoing clashes with Hamas

"As the only member to serve with both the United States Army and the Israel Defense Forces, I will always stand with Israel," he said.

By Ben Whedon

Published: October 13, 2023 4:11pm

Florida Republican Rep. Brian Mast on Friday wore a uniform of the Israel Defense Forces to show solidarity with that country amid its ongoing clashes with terrorist group Hamas.

Over the weekend, terrorists stormed out of the Gaza Strip, seizing Israeli border towns, taking hostages, and inflicting civilian casualties. The incursion prompted retaliatory strikes from the IDF and the fighting is ongoing. Hamas leaders have since called for a "Global Day of Rage" to protest Israeli strikes on Gaza.

Mast appeared at the Republican conference meeting on Friday wearing his uniform from his volunteer service with the IDF, which he joined after his service in the U.S. Army.

"As the only member to serve with both the United States Army and the Israel Defense Forces, I will always stand with Israel. Tlaib’s got her flag. I got my uniform. 'Global Day of Rage' my ass," he posted.

His mention of Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., refers to her practice of flying a Palestinian flag outside of her congressional office. The lawmaker is of Palestinian heritage and vocal critic of Israel.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.