By Brendan Scanland
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address Congress next month. It will be a high stakes address to Congress as Netanyahu looks to solidify US support at a time when many Americans are divided on Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.
It’s unclear if it will be an entirely warm reception on Capitol Hill, as a growing number of Democrats plan to boycott Netanyahu’s speech.
The number of Americans with very unfavorable views of the Israeli government has nearly doubled in the past two years from 12% to 21%, according to the Pew Research Center.
“I think it’s going to invite more of what we have seen in terms of discontent among our own people about what’s happening there,” said Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D- CA).
“With respect to any joint address to Congress, every individual member will make a decision as to whether they will participate or not participate,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D- NY) on Friday.
House Republicans believe boycotting the speech sends the wrong message.
“It is others in the Congress, the radical left that are carrying water for Hamas every day, carrying water for literally a terrorist organization. It’s inexcusable,” said Rep. Nick Langworthy (R- NY). “And to do that at the detriment of one of our greatest allies, the only real democracy in the Middle East, is disgusting,” Langworthy added.
“It’s pretty outrageous. They are clearly providing support and encouragement to a terrorist organization,” said Rep. Dan Meuser (R- PA).
House Republicans say Congress and the American people need to hear from Netanyahu.
“We need to hear from the prime minister, we need to eradicate Hamas. This war and the ceasefire will come when Hamas is no more,” said Langworthy.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 37,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel’s military offensive.
Netanyahu’s address to Congress is scheduled for July 24.
