Summary
On September 12, 2024, during a pro-Israel demonstration in Newton, Massachusetts, Scott Hayes, a pro-Israel Iraq war veteran, shot Caleb Gannon, an anti-Israel agitator, after being attacked. Hayes has been charged with assault and battery, while Gannon, who has a history of anti-Israel sentiments, was also charged after the incident.
The confrontation occurred as Hayes participated in a demonstration supporting Israel, where Gannon allegedly charged at him, leading to a physical struggle. Video footage of the incident shows Gannon tackling Hayes before the shooting. Following the event, Hayes’ supporters, including the Jewish organization Betar, have rallied behind him, claiming he acted in self-defense. Betar has initiated a GoFundMe campaign that has raised over $260,000 to aid Hayes’ legal defense, emphasizing concerns about the safety of pro-Israel supporters amidst rising tensions and violence against them. The incident has sparked discussions about the implications for free speech and self-defense in the context of politically charged protests.
Israel vowed to wipe out Hamas after Oct. 7. The terrorists are still hanging on one year later
Oct. 8 / Gazette / Gives a broader context of the ongoing conflict, linking the incident to larger geopolitical tensions and historical events. While informative, it diverges from the immediate topic and may dilute focus on Hayes' case. “ On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 Israelis in a terrorist attack the likes of which the country had never seen. Since then, Israel has been...
GoFundMe for pro-Israel protester who shot a man raises over $250,000
Sep. 23 / The Daily Dot / Highlights the significant financial backing for Scott Hayes through a GoFundMe campaign, providing insight into community support dynamics amid rising tensions. Offers a detailed account of the incident's context. “ Tricia Crimmins is a Senior Reporter on the politics and tech team covering discrimination, identity, and the 2024 election. She can be found on Twitter at...
Jewish group expresses support for man who shot anti-Israel attacker in ‘self-defense’
Sep. 14 / Gazette / Presents a strong perspective from the Jewish organization Betar, emphasizing self-defense claims and community fears regarding anti-Israel protests. It effectively captures the charged atmosphere surrounding the event. “ Betar, a century-old Jewish organization, expressed support for “American hero” Scott Hayes, a pro-Israel Iraq war veteran who was attacked by an anti-...