Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Address US Congress on July 24

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address both chambers of the US Congress on July 24, as announced by congressional leaders on Thursday, June 6 2024.

Netanyahu’s upcoming speech comes amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, with tensions running high between the two sides.

Both Republican and Democratic leaders extended invitations to Netanyahu, but the official date of his speech was confirmed only recently.

Last month, the International Criminal Court’s prosecutor sought arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant for their alleged involvement in the conflict.

Netanyahu strongly denounced the ICC’s actions, rejecting any comparisons between Israel and “mass murderers.”

According to a statement from congressional leaders, Netanyahu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Israel and share his perspective on the conflict.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, both Republicans, expressed hope that Netanyahu would use his address to outline Israel’s stance on democracy, terrorism, and peace in the region.

Netanyahu’s visit comes at a time when relations between the US and Israel have faced challenges, particularly within the Democratic Party.

Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, despite his disagreements with Netanyahu, voiced support for the invitation, emphasizing the enduring bond between the US and Israel.

President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has adopted a more critical stance towards Israel’s actions in Gaza, facing pressure from progressive Democrats to intervene in the conflict.

Some prominent Democrats, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have announced plans to boycott Netanyahu’s speech in protest against Israel’s actions.

Netanyahu’s last address to the US Congress was in 2015, during which he criticized then-President Barack Obama’s approach to Iran’s nuclear program.

As the date of Netanyahu’s speech approaches, it remains to be seen how his remarks will influence US-Israel relations amidst ongoing tensions in the region.