In a rare address to Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drew stark parallels between the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and historic U.S. tragedies such as Pearl Harbor and 9/11. His impassioned speech aimed to fortify the U.S.-Israel relationship while addressing widespread protests and criticisms of his handling of the Gaza war.
Netanyahu's visit to the U.S. comes at a crucial time, as the Biden administration pushes for a ceasefire agreement amid a chaotic election year. Since Hamas' attack, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and numerous hostages taken to Gaza, the conflict has escalated, claiming over 39,000 lives according to Gaza's Ministry of Health.
"Like Dec. 7, 1941, and Sept. 11, 2001, Oct. 7 is a day that will forever live in infamy," Netanyahu declared, standing where President Franklin D. Roosevelt once addressed Congress. "For the forces of civilization to triumph, America and Israel must stand together."
Netanyahu's speech was met with both applause and silence. Approximately 40 Democrats boycotted the event, condemning his policies and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Progressive Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez labeled Netanyahu a "war criminal," highlighting the deep divisions within Congress.
Addressing the protests, Netanyahu criticized those opposing his Gaza strategy. "Many choose to stand with evil. They stand with Hamas. They stand with rapists and murderers," he said, adding that such protesters are "Iran's useful idiots."
This rhetoric aligns with a statement from U.S. Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, who noted that actors tied to Iran's government have posed as activists online, encouraging and financially supporting protests.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, acknowledging Biden's longstanding support and Trump's contributions to Israel. This bipartisan praise, however, did not quell the discontent among many U.S. lawmakers.
The prime minister's condemnation of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, including himself, was a significant part of his address. He accused the ICC of attempting to prevent Israel from defending itself, warning that if Israel's hands are tied, America's could be next.
Netanyahu disputed claims that Israel deliberately targets Palestinian civilians, stating that Israel has warned civilians to evacuate before airstrikes. However, an NBC News investigation found that Israeli strikes had hit areas designated as safe zones in southern Gaza.
Mohamed Nossair of the Egyptian Red Crescent accused Israel of blocking essential aid, including oxygen canisters and water filters, to Gaza. Netanyahu countered, arguing that Hamas is responsible for stealing aid meant for civilians.
Despite the heavy security presence and protests outside the Capitol, including arrests and the use of pepper spray by police, Netanyahu received a warm welcome from many Republican lawmakers. His speech was intended to bolster U.S. support for Israel's military actions and to strengthen the alliance between the two nations.
Netanyahu's visit included meetings with U.S. political leaders and was marked by a stark contrast in receptions from different political factions. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans strongly supported Netanyahu, while many Democrats viewed his visit as politically motivated and untimely.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, despite his criticisms of Netanyahu, attended the speech, emphasizing the enduring U.S.-Israel relationship. "Even though I disagree with many of Bibi Netanyahu's policies, I will attend the speech because the United States relationship with Israel remains ironclad," Schumer said.
