Billionaire George Soros and other major Democrat donors are providing substantial funding to anti-Israel protests on college campuses, according to a recent report. These demonstrations, organized by groups like Jewish Voice for Peace and IfNotNow, have accused Israel of human rights violations and demanded a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Anti-Israel protests on college campuses have garnered significant attention, with some reports alleging that these demonstrations receive funding from prominent Democrat donors. The Politico report, titled "Pro-Palestinian protesters are backed by a surprising source: Biden's biggest donors," reveals that individuals like George Soros, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and David Rockefeller Jr. have contributed to these efforts.
The report highlights that Jewish Voice for Peace and IfNotNow are the primary organizations behind the anti-Israel protests at Columbia University and other campuses. These groups are supported by the Tides Foundation, which in turn receives funding from Soros and the Gates Foundation.
Soros, known for his philanthropy and support of progressive causes, has been a substantial contributor to organizations involved in the anti-Israel movement. The report alleges that his donations have played a significant role in fueling these protests on college campuses.
Other major Democrat donors, such as the Pritzkers, have also backed groups engaged in the pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The Pritzkers have been outspoken in their support for President Biden and donated heavily to his 2020 campaign.
The Rockefeller Fund, with David Rockefeller Jr. serving on its board, has also been linked to the funding of anti-Israel efforts. The fund has reportedly donated $300,000 to the Tides Foundation in 2022.
The revelations of Democrat donors supporting anti-Israel protests have sparked outrage and criticism from various quarters. Conservative commentators and Republican lawmakers have condemned the use of such funding to promote anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist agendas.
President Biden has addressed the issue of antisemitism and violent protests, reaffirming the right to peaceful protest while condemning violent actions and the targeting of campuses. He stated that "peaceful protest is in the best tradition of how Americans respond to consequential issues" but emphasized that "violent protest is not protected."
The revelations of funding for anti-Israel protests by major Democrat donors have raised concerns about the potential influence of dark money in shaping campus discourse and fueling unrest. The report underscores the need for transparency in funding sources and a balanced approach to addressing conflicts while protecting the rights of all parties involved.
