A significant number of Democratic lawmakers plan to skip Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming address to Congress. This protest is led by progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren, who announced her intention to boycott the speech, citing Netanyahu’s handling of the war in Gaza as the reason. She described Netanyahu’s policies as having created a “humanitarian catastrophe.” Joining her in this protest are Senator Bernie Sanders, Representatives Ro Khanna, Jim Clyburn, and dozens of other progressive lawmakers. Netanyahu’s speech is scheduled for July 24th, but the anticipated absences from progressive Democrats signal deepening tensions over U.S.-Israeli relations, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza.
Amidst the congressional boycott, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced strong criticism of the Biden administration’s military aid to Israel. In an interview with Punchbowl News, Netanyahu claimed that ammunition and weapons deliveries from the U.S. are arriving in a “trickle.” He further accused the U.S. of withholding weapons in a video released earlier this week, which sparked significant pushback from American officials. The Biden administration has denied these allegations, with White House national security communications adviser John Kirby labeling Netanyahu’s criticisms as incorrect and disappointing.
President Biden has paused the delivery of heavy bombs to Israel, stating that this particular shipment is under review. This pause comes amid broader scrutiny of U.S. military support to Israel, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The growing rift between progressive Democrats and the Israeli government, highlighted by the planned boycott of Netanyahu’s address, underscores a broader shift in U.S. politics. Many progressives are increasingly vocal in their criticism of Israel’s policies towards Gaza, calling for a reevaluation of U.S. support. This internal division within the Democratic Party reflects a larger debate on the U.S.’s role in international conflicts and human rights issues.
Netanyahu’s criticisms of the Biden administration further complicate this dynamic, potentially straining the long-standing alliance between the U.S. and Israel. As Netanyahu prepares to address Congress, the absence of prominent progressive lawmakers will be a stark visual representation of the current political discord. The situation also places the Biden administration in a delicate position, balancing support for Israel with calls for greater accountability and humanitarian considerations in Gaza.
The upcoming weeks are likely to see intensified discussions and negotiations as both U.S. and Israeli leaders navigate this complex and contentious issue.
