Netanyahu Addresses Congress Amid Tensions Over Gaza War

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, where he will find some staunch allies but also a growing number of critics. This comes during a challenging time for Israel as it continues its military operations against Hamas in Gaza.

Netanyahu is likely to emphasize his goal for ‘Total Victory’ over Hamas in his speech. He travels to Washington after a difficult period, facing pressure from both Israeli citizens eager for solutions to bring hostages home and international criticism over the escalating civilian casualties in Gaza.

Despite President Biden‘s support for Israel’s military goals, he is also advocating for a cease-fire following increasing concern over the high Palestinian death toll, with reports suggesting over 39,000 fatalities. This has created a complicated dynamic, as Netanyahu prepares to meet with Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

During the address, notable absences among Democratic lawmakers are expected, including Senate President Pro Tempore Patty Murray and Majority Whip Dick Durbin. Many have expressed strong objections to Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez stating she believes attending the speech would legitimize his actions.

On the other hand, some members of Congress feel strongly about showing support for Israel as a nation, regardless of individual leaders. Representative Jared Moskowitz remarked that supporting a country should transcend the current leadership, invoking comparisons to the previous administration.

As Congress grapples with these differing views, the divide among Democrats regarding U.S.-Israel policy remains a topic of discussion, especially as Biden wants to ensure the conflict does not escalate further in the region.