Members of the progressive "Squad" faction of House Democrats attempted to publicly attack a Jewish colleague but mistakenly targeted the wrong lawmaker, mixing up two Democrats who both share the first name Josh, according to Fox News. The mix-up embarrassed the group amid an already tense internal Democratic split over Israel policy, and it was compounded when the lawmakers involved were shown to have themselves previously voted for measures they were now criticising.

The confusion unfolded against a backdrop of growing Democratic division over support for Israel, with figures such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer facing pressure over the party's stance and Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman warning that anti-Israel positions represent a "red line" that could prompt him to leave the party. The episode followed related controversy in the House, including chaotic scenes after passage of a $1.15 trillion defence bill containing an Israel-related provision, and comments from New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani about arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Democrats themselves are divided over. Republicans are reported to be closely watching the Democratic infighting as the 2026 midterm elections approach.