Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress on July 24, at a pivotal time in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The invitation, confirmed by congressional leaders late Thursday, underscores continued American support for Israel despite widespread international criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The address comes amid heightened tensions and political divisions in both the U.S. and Israel over the conflict. Congressional leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, extended the invitation to Netanyahu, emphasizing the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship. In their invitation letter, they highlighted the âexistential challengesâ posed by the alliance between Iran, Russia, and China and the necessity of supporting Israelâs security.
“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,” the leaders wrote. They invited Netanyahu to discuss Israel’s vision for defending democracy, combating terrorism, and achieving a lasting peace in the region.
Netanyahu’s appearance is expected to be contentious. His speech is likely to draw protests from both lawmakers and pro-Palestinian groups. Senate Majority Leader Schumer, who has previously criticized Netanyahu, expressed his “clear and profound disagreements” but supported the invitation to reaffirm America’s unwavering support for Israel. Schumer emphasized that the U.S.-Israel relationship is “ironclad” and transcends any single individual or administration.
Some Democratic lawmakers, however, are expected to boycott Netanyahuâs address. Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent critic, stated, “Netanyahu is a war criminal. I certainly will not attend.” This underscores the growing divisions within the Democratic Party over U.S. support for Israel.
The visit to Congress comes as Netanyahuâs relationship with President Joe Biden remains strained. Biden has publicly criticized Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza conflict and expressed concern over Israelâs restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza. Last week, Biden proposed a three-phase plan aimed at achieving an enduring ceasefire in Gaza, including the release of hostages and prisoners, and initiating reconstruction efforts in the region. While Biden claimed Israel had agreed to the plan, he acknowledged that some members of Netanyahu’s coalition might oppose it.
“Theyâve 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,” Biden said, emphasizing the need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Netanyahuâs address will provide a platform for him to articulate Israelâs position amid these ongoing debates and tensions, both domestically and internationally.
