Full Breakdown
Controversial Remarks by University Research Assistant Spark Outrage
3/10/2026, 8:41:46 AM
Inflammatory Comments and Backlash
Djamil Lakhdar-Hamina, a research assistant at the University of Maryland, has faced significant backlash following remarks made during a YouTube video streamed on March 1, 2026. In the video, which aired on the channel of Cosmonaut Magazine, a socialist publication, Lakhdar-Hamina suggested bombing parts of Los Angeles and Miami to target Cuban and Iranian Americans who support U.S. military actions against Iran. He criticized members of the Iranian diaspora for their support of U.S. military strikes, using derogatory language to describe them as “gusanos,” a term historically employed by the Cuban communist regime to insult Cuban exiles.
Lakhdar-Hamina stated, “Seeing the Iranian diaspora just cheer on their country getting just bombed — there has to be an Olympic competition between the worst gusanos in the world on the podium, competing for gold.” He further expressed disbelief at individuals who support military action against their homeland, questioning their loyalty and intentions.
Reactions and Calls for Accountability
The comments have drawn widespread condemnation, with critics labeling them as incitements to violence. Notably, Dick Lucas, a candidate for the California State Assembly, condemned Lakhdar-Hamina's remarks, asserting that they reflect the views of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the political organization with which Lakhdar-Hamina is affiliated. Lucas stated, “Just a member of the DSA encouraging terrorist attacks against Los Angeles,” and expressed his refusal to support any DSA member, including Los Angeles city council member Nithya Raman, who is running for mayor.
Former LA City Council candidate Sam Yebri echoed these sentiments, claiming that DSA members harbor violent intentions toward Iranian and Cuban Americans who have fled oppressive regimes. The comments have prompted calls for the University of Maryland and the Joint Quantum Institute, where Lakhdar-Hamina works, to respond to the controversy.
Context of Political Tensions
Lakhdar-Hamina's remarks come amid heightened political tensions regarding U.S. military actions against Iran, which have polarized various diaspora communities. Supporters of aggressive U.S. policies often clash with those who fear escalation and advocate for diplomatic solutions. The inflammatory nature of Lakhdar-Hamina's comments has intensified these divisions, particularly among immigrant communities in Los Angeles and Miami.
Official Statements & Responses
As of now, neither the University of Maryland, the Joint Quantum Institute, nor the DSA has issued public statements regarding Lakhdar-Hamina's comments. The lack of response has further fueled criticism and calls for accountability from various political figures and community members.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Seeing the Iranian diaspora just cheer on their country getting just bombed — there has to be an Olympic competition between the worst gusanos in the world on the podium, competing for gold,” — Djamil Lakhdar-Hamina, Research Assistant, University of Maryland
- “Just a member of the DSA encouraging terrorist attacks against Los Angeles,” — Dick Lucas, California State Assembly Candidate
- “Former LA City Council candidate Sam Yebri posted this in response to the clip: “DSA members want to murder Iranian-Americans and Cuban-Americans who have lived through the socialism and fascism they advocate.” — Sam Yebri, Former LA City Council Candidate
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Lakhdar-Hamina's comments have been widely condemned, there is a lack of official responses from the University of Maryland and related organizations, leaving questions about their stance on the matter. Additionally, the broader implications of these remarks on U.S.-Iran relations and the political landscape among diaspora communities remain to be fully explored.
