Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address a joint meeting of the US Congress on July 24, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. This speech comes at a critical time as tensions remain high and political divisions over Israel's actions in Gaza grow.
Congressional leaders confirmed the date on Thursday after inviting Netanyahu to speak last week. This invitation reflects the strong support for Israel among US lawmakers, despite differing opinions on the military actions in Gaza.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated in their invitation, "The existential challenges we face, including the growing partnership between Iran, Russia, and China, threaten the security, peace, and prosperity of our countries and of free people around the world. To build on our enduring relationship and to highlight America’s solidarity with Israel, we invite you to share the Israeli government’s vision for defending democracy, combatting terror, and establishing a just and lasting peace in the region."
Netanyahu's address is expected to be contentious, drawing protests from lawmakers and pro-Palestinian groups. Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish official in the US, acknowledged his disagreements with Netanyahu but emphasized the importance of the US-Israel relationship. "America’s relationship with Israel is ironclad and transcends one person or prime minister," Schumer stated.
Some Democratic lawmakers critical of Netanyahu's approach plan to skip the speech. Senator Bernie Sanders declared, "Netanyahu is a war criminal. I certainly will not attend."
Strained US-Israel Relations
Netanyahu's visit comes at a time when his relationship with President Joe Biden is strained. Biden has criticized Netanyahu's handling of the conflict and urged for more humanitarian aid to Gaza. Last week, Biden proposed a three-phase plan for an enduring ceasefire in Gaza, which includes the release of captives and a reconstruction plan for Gaza.
Biden's proposal, which he said Israel has agreed to, marks a shift from the US administration's previous stance of supporting a temporary truce while backing Israel's goal of eliminating Hamas. However, Biden noted that some Israeli officials, including members of Netanyahu's coalition, may oppose the plan and want the conflict to continue.
Biden urged Israeli leaders to support the plan despite internal pressures, stating, "They’ve made it clear: They want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years. The hostages are not a priority for them. Well, I urge the leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal despite whatever pressure comes."
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