Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address a joint meeting of the US Congress on July 24, at a pivotal moment in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Congressional leaders confirmed the date following a formal invitation extended last week. This address signifies the US’s continued support for its long-time ally amidst increasing political divisions over Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries collectively issued the invitation, emphasizing the shared existential challenges posed by the alliances of Iran, Russia, and China. They underscored the importance of Netanyahu’s address to reaffirm America’s solidarity with Israel and to discuss the defense of democracy, the fight against terrorism, and the quest for lasting peace in the region.
Netanyahu’s speech is anticipated to be contentious, reflecting the growing divide within Congress and among the American public. Protests are expected both inside the Capitol from lawmakers and outside by pro-Palestinian demonstrators. The event highlights the increasing rifts within the Democratic Party over Netanyahu’s handling of the war against Hamas.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the US, expressed his significant disagreements with Netanyahu but affirmed his support for the invitation, emphasizing the enduring US-Israel relationship. However, several Democratic lawmakers critical of Netanyahu’s strategy are expected to boycott the address. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has openly called Netanyahu a “war criminal” and declared his intention not to attend.
Netanyahu’s upcoming visit also comes amid strained relations with President Joe Biden, who has publicly and privately criticized Netanyahu’s wartime strategies and Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza. Biden recently proposed a cease-fire agreement to end the fighting, increasing pressure on Netanyahu to accept. The proposed deal includes a full cease-fire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from densely populated areas of Gaza, and the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
The second phase of Biden’s plan involves the release of all remaining hostages and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, followed by the reconstruction of the war-torn region. Netanyahu, however, has dismissed the idea of a permanent cease-fire without meeting long-standing conditions, casting doubt on the proposal attributed to Israel.
Netanyahu’s acceptance of the peace deal will significantly influence the attendance of Democratic lawmakers at his address. His far-right allies in Israel have threatened to withdraw support if he agrees to the deal, potentially leading to new elections and exposing Netanyahu to further scrutiny and prosecution on corruption charges if he loses power.
House Speaker Mike Johnson initially suggested inviting Netanyahu, expressing it would be a “great honor” to host him. Netanyahu’s acceptance of the invitation has set the stage for a critical address that will be closely watched worldwide.
