'Disgusting gaslighting, victim narrative': CAIR-LA outreach manager rants about 'Zionists'

Samer Naseredden, an outreach manager with CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) referred to Zionists as "disgusting" in a July 12 sermon in California, shared by MEMRI.

In the speech, Naseredden said that the "Zionist entity" was about to collapse, referring to Israel. He also accused Israel of "disgusting gaslighting" and a "victim narrative."

"We have to have the courage to stand up for justice. Because, brothers and sisters, the Zionist entity, inshallah, by the will of Allah, is on the precipice of collapse."

CAIR Official Samer Naseredden in California Friday Sermon: The Zionist Entity Is on the Precipice of Collapse – Like Jenga Blocks Being Removed One by One; This Is Why They Are So Disgusting with Their Gaslighting and Victim Narrative @CAIRNational pic.twitter.com/9QmKSQOfuv

— MEMRI (@MEMRIReports) July 19, 2024

He criticized Israel for labeling what he called anti-Israel "peaceful protesters" as "violent" and "antisemitic."

MEMRI, who accessed parts of the sermon not included in the stream, reported that Naseredden, an associate outreach manager of CAIR-LA, claimed to be responsible for fundraising and political action campaigning. He previously served as youth director of MAS – Muslim American Society – according to MEMRI. 

The sermon was streamed live on the YouTube channel of the Chino Valley Islamic Center.

CAIR-LA

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) describes itself as America’s largest Muslim civil liberties organization, focusing on advocacy and civil rights. While the organization is part of the White House's Strategy on Antisemitism, they did not condemn Hamas's actions during the October 7 attacks. 

In December, CAIR director Nihad Awad praised the October 7 massacre and expressed happiness at people "breaking through the siege" as well as denying Israel's right to self-defense. The White House issued a statement condemning his comments.