Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) clarified that his recent comments comparing the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip to Nagasaki and Hiroshima were taken out of context and not meant to express support for nuclear strikes on the region.
Speaking at a town hall in Dundee, Michigan, Mr. Walberg discussed U.S. humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza when he made the controversial remarks. He stated, “We shouldn’t be spending a dime on humanitarian aid. It should be like Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Get it over quick.”
Following the backlash on social media, many interpreted his words as advocating for the indiscriminate killing of Gazans, including with nuclear weapons.
Dawud Walid, executive director of the Michigan chapter for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, condemned Mr. Walberg’s comments, calling it a “clear call to genocide.”
The Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant destruction and civilian casualties, with thousands of Gazans killed, injured, and missing.
Hiroshima, Nagasaki References were Metaphorical: Congressman
In response to the criticism, Mr. Walberg clarified that his references to Hiroshima and Nagasaki were metaphorical and not a call for nuclear warfare. He emphasized the need for a swift resolution to conflicts in Israel and Ukraine without endangering American troops.
President Joe Biden recently ordered the construction of a temporary pier in Gaza for humanitarian aid deliveries, a topic Mr. Walberg discussed during his town hall appearance.
He also expressed his belief that more U.S. aid for Ukraine should be allocated to combatting Russian forces rather than humanitarian efforts.
