On a recent Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave a notable speech to the United States Congress. This marked his fourth address to Congress, breaking the record previously held by Winston Churchill. His speech aimed to gather support for Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. However, his arrival and speech sparked protests both outside and inside the Capitol building.
Warm Welcome and Praises for the US
As Netanyahu entered the Congress chamber, he received a standing ovation from many lawmakers, although some boos were also heard. Netanyahu began his speech by praising the American people and politicians, emphasising the strong bond between the US and Israel.
“Through thick and thin, in good times and in bad, Israel will always be your loyal friend and your steadfast partner. On behalf of the people of Israel, I came here today to say thank you, America,” Netanyahu stated. He expressed gratitude towards both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump for their support of Israel.
A Divided Congress
Despite the warm welcome from some, Netanyahu faced a divided Congress. Many Democratic lawmakers, including prominent figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, chose to boycott the speech due to their concerns over the humanitarian impact of the war in Gaza and others left the chamber early.
Netanyahu acknowledged President Biden’s support following the October 7 attacks on Israel by calling Hamas “sheer evil.” He also thanked Trump for his pro-Israel policies, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moving the American embassy there.
Protests and Criticisms
Outside the Capitol, thousands of protesters gathered, accusing Netanyahu of committing genocide in Gaza. US Capitol Police had to use pepper spray on some protesters who became violent. Inside the chamber, Representative Rashida Tlaib held up a sign calling Netanyahu a “war criminal” and accusing him of genocide.
Netanyahu did not ignore these protests. Instead, he criticized the protesters, calling them misguided and accusing them of supporting evil. “Many choose to stand with evil. They stand with Hamas. They stand with rapists and murderers,” Netanyahu said, targeting not only the Capitol protesters but also anti-war demonstrations on US campuses.
International Criminal Court (ICC) and War Crimes
In May, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan called for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his allies, accusing them of war crimes in Gaza. Netanyahu used his speech to strongly oppose these accusations, defending Israel’s actions as necessary for its security. He warned that if the ICC’s actions were allowed, they could also target the US and other democracies.
“The hands of the Jewish state will never be shackled,” Netanyahu declared. “Israel will always defend itself.”
Calls for Increased Military Aid
Netanyahu also used his speech to call for more military aid from the US. He argued that fast-tracking military aid would help Israel end the war in Gaza more quickly and prevent a broader conflict in the Middle East. The US already sends Israel $3.8 billion annually in military aid, and an additional package could provide up to $17 billion more.
“Give us the tools faster, and we’ll finish the job faster,” Netanyahu urged Congress.
The Humanitarian Crisis and Ceasefire Negotiations
As the war in Gaza continues, with over 39,000 Palestinians killed, pressure mounts on Netanyahu to seek a ceasefire. Families of Israeli captives in Gaza hoped Netanyahu would announce a deal during his speech, but he disappointed them. Instead, he repeated his stance on achieving “total victory” against Hamas before considering peace.
“This is not a clash of civilizations. It’s a clash between barbarism and civilization,” Netanyahu said. He outlined a vision for a demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza, stating that Israel must maintain security control to prevent future threats.
Mixed Reactions
Netanyahu’s speech received mixed reactions. Supporters in Israel praised it as a powerful defense of Israel’s actions. Aryeh Deri, head of Shas, a party in Netanyahu’s coalition, tweeted, “You placed the truth on the most important stage in the world.” However, critics accused Netanyahu of lying and using propaganda to justify the war.
Families of hostages in Gaza were particularly vocal, accusing Netanyahu of delaying a ceasefire deal to appease ultra-right nationalists in his government. Many felt his speech ignored the urgent need for a cease fire and killings of innocent people in Gaza.
The Bottom Line
Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to the US Congress highlighted the deep divisions and complex issues surrounding the war in Gaza. While he received strong support from some US lawmakers and Israeli citizens, his speech also faced significant criticism and protests. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing conflict continue to spark intense debate and concern on the global stage.
Netanyahu’s address underscored the strong ties between the US and Israel, but also the challenges in achieving peace and resolving the conflict. As the situation in Gaza remains dire, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings an end to the suffering and paves the way for lasting peace.
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