• Source:JND
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FBI Director Kash Patel came under scrutiny on Wednesday as Democrats grilled him over the Epstein files and the bureau’s transparency on the case. Patel defended the Trump administration’s handling of the matter during a congressional hearing. A viral video from the US Capitol showed activists heckling Patel, accusing him of ignoring child abuse and prioritising Israeli interests over American concerns. 

The confrontation came amid rising outrage over Washington’s continued aid to Israel. Activists cited the US providing USD 500 million for missile defense and billions in arms sales. They also criticized ongoing war aid while Gaza faces a worsening humanitarian crisis. The crowd accused Patel of being a “cuck for Israel,” linking his silence to US policy decisions.

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Epstein Files Questions

Democrats also raised the issue of Jeffrey Epstein’s files. One asked Patel how he went from calling for accountability to allegedly covering up evidence. Patel replied that the FBI had already released all files that were “legally allowed.” He added that the agency would look into Donald Trump’s claim about a forged letter tied to Epstein.

Democratic Representative Jared Moskowitz pressed Patel to open an investigation into the Epstein estate for releasing a fake document. Patel initially resisted but later said, “Sure, I’ll do it.” During hearings, Patel tried to shift focus to the FBI’s record on violent crime, child protection, and stopping fentanyl trafficking.

Confusion Over Kirk Case

Patel also faced questions about his handling of the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. He said the suspect was arrested within 33 hours. But senators criticised him for earlier posting online that “the subject” was in custody, even when the real suspect was not yet caught. Patel defended his choice of words, saying he wanted to assure the public someone had been detained.

Senators pressed Patel on Epstein again. He insisted there was “no credible information” that Epstein trafficked teenage girls to others. “If there were, I would bring the case yesterday,” he said. But he admitted earlier investigations were limited due to a secret plea deal in Florida that shielded Epstein. Lawmakers argued that Patel’s answers would not satisfy public demand for full disclosure.

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Republican Senator John Kennedy warned the controversy would not disappear. “People know Epstein trafficked young women. They want to know if he trafficked them to others,” Kennedy said. Patel maintained that the FBI’s files from 2006 to 2007 were narrow in scope. The clash shows the issue of Epstein’s network, and Washington’s ties abroad, remains unsettled.