The London School of Economics (LSE) has defended its decision to host the launch of a book at its Middle East Centre, which argues that Hamas has been unfairly "vilified and demonized"

following the October 7 attacks in Israel.

The book, Understanding Hamas and Why That Matters, co-authored by Helena Cobban and Rami G. Khouri, asserts that Hamas has evolved from its early "anti-Jewish tendencies" and now distinguishes between Judaism and Zionism. The 244-page publication claims that branding Hamas as a “terrorist” organization has contributed to intensified demonization, particularly after the events of October 7, 2023.

Book launch and controversy

The event, scheduled for March 10, features a panel of academic speakers, some of whom have previously criticized Israel and Zionism while challenging the portrayal of Hamas as “irrational terrorists.” Promotional material for the event on LSE’s website initially stated that “the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has been subjected to intense vilification” in Western discourse. However, following inquiries from Jewish News, this text was revised to clarify that the claim is made in the book, rather than a statement from the university itself.

LSE defended its decision to host the event, stating that “free speech and freedom of expression underpin everything we do at LSE.” A university spokesperson added:

“Students, staff, and visitors are strongly encouraged to discuss and debate the most pressing issues around the world.”

Perspectives from the authors and academics

The book, published by OR Books, aims to provide a deeper understanding of Hamas, examining its transition from social and religious activism to national political engagement, as well as the relationship between its political and military wings.

Professor Fawaz A. Gerges of LSE’s International Relations department has endorsed the book, stating that it “makes the case for engaging the movement as opposed to trying to ostracize it and destroy it.”

Co-author Helena Cobban’s social media activity has also drawn attention. She recently retweeted a post by Irish comedian Tadhg Hickey, who referenced attending the funeral of Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, describing the attendees as “all the best freedom fighters.” Additionally, Cobban has shared posts critical of the disproportionate attention given to Israeli victims in comparison to Palestinian casualties.

Her co-author, Rami G. Khouri, a director at the Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs at the American University of Beirut and a regular contributor to Al Jazeera, has written that Hamas has been “demonized in the West” and described it as a “successful Palestinian national political organization.”

Academic commentary and free speech debate

Other scheduled speakers include Michael Mason, director of LSE’s Middle East Centre, Jeroen Gunning, and Catherine Charrett of the University of Westminster. Gunning has previously stated that reducing Hamas to a group of “irrational terrorists” prevents a deeper understanding of the situation in Gaza, which he described as an “open-air prison.”

Charrett has also made statements critical of Zionism, while Mason has argued that understanding historical events such as the 1948 Nakba is essential to comprehending current global protests and Palestinian solidarity movements.

LSE’s position on the event

Addressing concerns about the one-sided nature of the event, an LSE spokesperson reiterated the institution’s commitment to academic freedom:

“We host an enormous number of events each year, covering a wide range of viewpoints and positions. We have clear policies to ensure debates are facilitated properly, allowing all members of our community to refute ideas lawfully while protecting individuals' rights to free expression within the law.”

LSE also cited its Code of Practice on Free Speech and Ethics Code as guiding principles in hosting such discussions.

The event has sparked debate over the boundaries of academic discourse, free speech, and the role of universities in facilitating discussions on contentious political issues. Photo by Umezo KAMATA, Wikimedia commons.