Groups demonstrate in Florida for Hamas, Israel as tensions amp up

TAMPA, Fla. – Rallies consisting of pro-Israel and pro-Hamas supporters gathered in Fort Lauderdale and Tampa on Sunday amid war between Israel and Hamas.

Over the weekend, Hamas invaded Israeli territory and murdered innocent citizens, according to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said the group started “a brutal and evil war.”

Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, condemned rallies in Florida supporting Hamas as war in the war escalates.

“To those here in Tampa marching in support of Hamas – I condemn your actions,” Collins said. “The Hamas are not heroic resistance fighters, they are terrorist thugs purposefully targeting civilians.”

To those here in Tampa marching in support of Hamas - I condemn your actions.

The Hamas are not heroic resistance fighters, they are terrorist thugs purposefully targeting civilians.

— Jay Collins (@JayCollinsFL) October 8, 2023