Israeli Prime Minister’s Address to Congress
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel on Wednesday issued a resolute defense of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza during his address to Congress. The speech underscored the deep divisions in Washington over a conflict that has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties.
In his impassioned speech, Netanyahu staunchly refuted criticisms of Israel’s actions, which have sparked controversy within the Democratic Party and on college campuses across America. He emphasized the interconnectedness of Israel’s security with that of the United States, asserting, “We’re not only protecting ourselves; we’re protecting you.”
Netanyahu further emphasized the shared interests between Israel and the U.S., stating, “Our enemies are your enemies; our fight is your fight, and our victory will be your victory.” He highlighted Israel’s strategic importance in countering regional threats, particularly Iran.
The significance of Netanyahu’s address extended beyond his words. As global scrutiny of Israel’s actions mounts, both in Israel and the U.S., the Prime Minister sought to leverage the platform of Congress to bolster his political standing. Notably, leaders from both major parties extended a bipartisan invitation to host him.
However, the erosion of the longstanding bipartisan support for Israel in Congress was evident during the speech. Many Democratic members, including key senators and Representative Nancy Pelosi, chose to boycott the address. Vice President Kamala Harris, breaking tradition, did not preside over the session, citing scheduling conflicts.
During the address, Representative Rashida Tlaib, the first Palestinian American member of Congress, held up a sign that accused Netanyahu of being a “war criminal” and “guilty of genocide.” This gesture highlighted the deep divisions and passionate debates surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
