Israeli PM Netanyahu Faces Mixed Reactions and Protests During US Congress Address

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address a joint session of the US Congress for a record fourth time on Wednesday, surpassing British wartime leader Winston Churchill’s three addresses. Netanyahu’s speech, scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT (1900 GMT), is anticipated to focus on coordinating responses to escalating Middle East tensions and calling for stronger action against Iran, which supports Hamas and Hezbollah. The address follows growing concerns about the Gaza conflict potentially expanding into a broader regional war.

Political and Public Distractions

Netanyahu’s visit, orchestrated by Congressional Republican leaders, comes amid significant distractions in Washington. The city is currently preoccupied with President Biden’s recent announcement to end his re-election bid and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic presidential nomination. Additionally, Netanyahu’s visit has prompted large-scale protests, with the Capitol surrounded by high fencing and additional police. Several streets in Washington will also be closed in anticipation of the demonstrations.

Divisions Among Lawmakers

The address has highlighted deep divisions among US lawmakers. Many Democrats, including Senators Chris Van Hollen, Dick Durbin, Tim Kaine, Jeff Merkley, Brian Schatz, and Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, plan to skip the speech. They cite concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 39,000 Palestinian deaths according to Gaza health officials, and express reluctance to support Netanyahu amidst declining domestic poll numbers.

In contrast, some Republicans have criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for not attending the speech, noting her absence will be countered by a separate meeting with Netanyahu. Harris’s role will be filled by Democratic Senator Ben Cardin, who will preside over the session. Republican Senator JD Vance, running as Trump’s vice-presidential nominee, will also be absent due to campaign duties. Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with former President Donald Trump in Florida later this week, marking their first encounter since Trump’s presidency.

Netanyahu’s address underscores the complex and often contentious relationship between US and Israeli politics, amidst ongoing conflicts and domestic political shifts.