Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address both chambers of the US Congress on 24 July, congressional leaders announced on Thursday. This invitation comes amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Both Republican and Democratic leaders extended the invitation, with the date finalized only recently.
Netanyahu’s visit is notable as the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor has applied for arrest warrants against him and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant on war-related charges. Netanyahu strongly condemned the ICC’s actions, rejecting any comparison of Israel to “mass murderers.”
In a statement, Netanyahu expressed his honor in representing Israel and defending its actions in the conflict. He emphasized his desire to present the truth about Israel’s efforts against those aiming to destroy the nation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, both Republicans, highlighted the importance of Netanyahu’s address, inviting him to discuss Israel’s strategies for defending democracy, combating terrorism, and pursuing peace in the region.
Despite growing tensions between the US and Israel, particularly among US Democrats, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer supported the invitation, emphasizing the strong, bipartisan relationship between the US and Israel.
US President Joe Biden has also shown increased criticism of Israel amid the rising death toll in Gaza. Facing political pressure from his party’s progressive wing, Biden has been urged to push Israel to limit its actions in Gaza. Progressive leaders, such as Senator Bernie Sanders, have announced plans to boycott Netanyahu’s speech in protest of Israel’s actions.
The Israel-Gaza conflict escalated after Hamas-led fighters attacked southern Israel on 7 October, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. Since then, the Hamas-run health ministry reports over 36,470 deaths in Gaza due to the prolonged fighting.
In a recent push for peace, Biden proposed a three-part ceasefire plan, including a six-week cessation of hostilities, increased humanitarian aid, and an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. However, this proposal faces strong opposition from Israeli government members, casting doubt on its feasibility.
Netanyahu’s last address to the US Congress was in 2015, where he criticized then-President Barack Obama’s nuclear deal negotiations with Iran. This upcoming address will be closely watched, given the current geopolitical climate and the ongoing conflict.
