Julian Epstein, former chief counsel to House Judiciary Committee Democrats, delivered a blunt assessment of the Palestinian movement during an appearance on Life, Liberty & Levin, asserting that it is “not about peace” but about “destroying Israel.”

Epstein, who has emerged as one of the few Democrats publicly challenging his party’s growing anti-Israel sentiment, discussed the recent Gaza peace efforts and the broader political realities surrounding the conflict. “The Palestinian movement is not about peace,” he said. “It is about destroying Israel. That’s been the core objective since 1948, and it hasn’t changed.”

His comments come as global debate continues over a proposed Gaza peace framework — an initiative supported by the Trump administration and several Arab states seeking to dismantle Hamas and ensure long-term regional stability. Epstein emphasized that genuine peace cannot be achieved while Palestinian leadership continues to glorify violence, reject recognition of Israel, and teach generations of children to hate Jews.

Analysts note that Epstein’s remarks underscore a growing divide within the Democratic Party between traditional pro-Israel moderates and the rising progressive bloc that has increasingly aligned with Palestinian narratives. By speaking out, Epstein joins a chorus of bipartisan voices warning that appeasing radical elements within the Palestinian movement only prolongs instability and undermines prospects for peace.

His appearance on Levin’s program reinforced a key message echoed by Israeli officials: peace requires honesty about intent — and the first step is acknowledging that Israel’s existence is non-negotiable.