Defense for Suspended Columbia Students

Stanley Cohen, a controversial attorney known for his defense of individuals linked to terrorism, has publicly mourned the death of Ismail Haniyeh, a prominent leader of Hamas, who was assassinated on July 31. Cohen, who previously helped lift suspensions for anti-Israel students at Columbia University, has a history of representing high-profile clients, including a cofounder of Hamas and Osama Bin Laden's son-in-law. In his tribute, Cohen described Haniyeh's death as a loss for the struggle for freedom and justice, attributing it to the "unrelenting cruelty" of occupation. Cohen's connections to Hamas extend beyond Haniyeh; he has represented Mousa Abu Marzook, a key figure within the organization. Following Haniyeh's assassination, Cohen shared a message from a Hamas leader expressing the need to defend their people, highlighting the group's commitment to resistance. Haniyeh was instrumental in enhancing Hamas's military capabilities and was viewed by Israel as a significant figure within the organization. In a statement reflecting on Hamas's actions, Cohen referred to the group's October 7 attack on Israel as an "earthquake" and vowed to continue the fight for liberation. His profile on social media features a photo with Haniyeh and another Hamas cofounder, Ahmed Yassin, further emphasizing his alignment with the group's leadership. Cohen's remarks and affiliations have drawn criticism, particularly in the context of rising anti-Semitism and ongoing tensions in the region.