Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the US Congress on July 24, 2024, has intensified the controversy surrounding Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. In a fiery speech, Netanyahu defended Israel’s military actions and called for ‘total victory’ against Hamas, while denouncing American protesters as ‘useful idiots’ for Iran.The Prime Minister’s remarks were met with a divided response. Republican lawmakers offered standing ovations, while over 60 Democratic representatives, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, boycotted the event. Outside the Capitol, thousands of protesters gathered to demand an immediate ceasefire and an end to US military aid to Israel.Netanyahu outlined a vision for a post-war Gaza, calling for a ‘demilitarized and deradicalized’ area under Palestinian administration but Israeli security control. He urged faster US arms deliveries to Israel, stating, ‘Give us the tools and we will finish the job quickly’. The Prime Minister also shared a personal story about his son Noah, who was allegedly kidnapped by Hamas and later rescued.The speech has further strained US-Israel relations. While Netanyahu praised President Biden’s support, his planned meeting with former President Trump in Florida has added a controversial dimension to his visit amid the ongoing US presidential election cycle.Critics, including Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who held a sign reading ‘WAR CRIMINAL’, have accused Netanyahu of downplaying civilian casualties in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of nearly 40,000 Gaza residents and widespread humanitarian crisis.As tensions continue to escalate, Netanyahu’s speech has highlighted the growing divide between the Israeli government’s approach to the conflict and increasing calls for a ceasefire from segments of the American public and international community.
Key points
- Netanyahu called for ‘total victory’ in Gaza and continued US support.
- Over 60 Democratic lawmakers boycotted the speech, while thousands protested outside.
- Netanyahu outlined a vision for a demilitarized Gaza under Israeli security control.
- The speech has further strained US-Israel relations and highlighted divisions over the conflict.
Contradictions👾Netanyahu claimed that Israel’s military is careful not to harm civilians and that Gaza has the lowest civilian casualty rate in urban warfare history, which contradicts reports of widespread civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis.
👾While Netanyahu praised President Biden’s support, his planned meeting with former President Trump suggests potential political maneuvering that could complicate US-Israel relations.