Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the US Congress on July 24, 2024, intensified the controversy surrounding Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. Netanyahu sought to bolster US support for Israel’s fight against Hamas and other Iran-backed groups, emphasizing the need for unity between the two nations. “America and Israel must stand together. When we stand together, something really simple happens: we win, they lose,” Netanyahu declared to applause from Republican lawmakers.The speech was met with significant opposition both inside and outside the Capitol. Over 60 Democratic lawmakers, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, boycotted the address. Thousands of protesters gathered outside, demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to US military aid to Israel. The demonstrations turned chaotic, with hundreds of protesters arrested and law enforcement using pepper spray to disperse the crowd.Netanyahu’s remarks were notably confrontational. He labeled American protesters as “useful idiots” for Iran, and accused Hamas of deliberately endangering Palestinian civilians to tarnish Israel’s reputation. The Prime Minister vowed to continue fighting until achieving “total victory,” despite mounting international pressure for a ceasefire.The ongoing conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, though Netanyahu did not address this at length in his speech. Instead, he outlined a vision for a demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza Strip under Israeli military control.Netanyahu’s visit also included a meeting with President Joe Biden to discuss the situation in Gaza, progress towards a ceasefire, and an agreement on the release of hostages. In a surprising development, Netanyahu also praised former President Donald Trump for his support of Israel and plans to visit him at Mar-a-Lago, Florida.The event has further strained US-Israel relations, highlighting the growing divide between the Israeli government’s approach to the conflict and increasing calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian intervention from the international community and segments of the American public.
Key points
- Netanyahu addressed US Congress, defending Israel’s actions in Gaza and seeking continued support.
- Over 60 Democratic lawmakers boycotted the speech, while thousands protested outside the Capitol.
- Netanyahu called American protesters ‘useful idiots’ for Iran and vowed to continue the war until ‘total victory’.
- The speech has further strained US-Israel relations and highlighted divisions over the Gaza conflict.
Contradictions👾While Netanyahu sought to ease tensions with President Biden, he also praised former President Trump and plans to visit him, potentially complicating diplomatic relations.
👾Netanyahu claimed Israel has done a lot to protect Palestinian civilians, but did not address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza at length in his speech.
