Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address US Congress on July 24, as announced by Republican party leaders on Thursday. This visit occurs amidst increasing pressure for both Israel and Hamas militants to agree to a lasting ceasefire, especially as Israel faces growing diplomatic isolation over the escalating death toll in Gaza.
President Joe Biden recently presented a three-phase plan aimed at resolving the conflict, releasing all hostages, and facilitating the reconstruction of Gaza without Hamas in power. However, Netanyahu’s office emphasized that the war initiated by attacks on October 7 would continue until Israel’s objectives, including the dismantling of Hamas, are achieved. Hamas has not yet responded to this plan.
In a show of solidarity with Israel against terrorism and Hamas’s continued captivity of American and Israeli citizens, top party leaders from both sides in the US House and Senate invited Netanyahu to speak before a joint meeting of Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell stated that Netanyahu’s visit signifies the enduring relationship between the US and Israel, providing him with an opportunity to outline Israel’s vision for defending democracy, combating terrorism, and establishing lasting peace in the region.
This visit follows a call from Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in March for Israel to hold new elections, reflecting rare criticism from a senior American official regarding Israel’s handling of the conflict in Gaza. Despite differences, Schumer emphasized the strong bond between the US and Israel, transcending individual leaders.
The ongoing war, initiated by Hamas attacks on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. International efforts, including mediation by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, aim to secure a ceasefire and a prisoner-hostage swap. However, Israel faces increasing diplomatic challenges, with accusations of war crimes and recognition of a Palestinian state by several European countries.
Netanyahu’s planned visit to the US Congress represents a pivotal moment in addressing the ongoing conflict and diplomatic pressures faced by Israel.