Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed made controversial comments about Israel during a recent CNN appearance, according to reports from multiple news outlets.

During the interview, El-Sayed reportedly stated that Israel is "just as evil" as Hamas and referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a war criminal. The comments have drawn attention as Democrats prepare for upcoming elections.

El-Sayed is seeking the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate from Michigan. His remarks came amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East and debates within the Democratic Party over U.S. policy toward Israel.

The comments have raised questions about how such statements might affect Democratic electoral prospects. Some observers have noted concerns about the potential impact of controversial positions on Israel within certain voter demographics.

El-Sayed's campaign has not immediately responded to requests for comment about the CNN appearance. The candidate previously served as a Detroit health commissioner and ran unsuccessfully for Michigan governor in 2018.