The leaders of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives extended an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a joint meeting of Congress on Friday, demonstrating support amidst partisan divisions regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The invitation, signed by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, emphasized the enduring relationship between the United States and Israel. It encouraged Netanyahu to share Israel’s perspective on defending democracy, combating terror, and achieving lasting peace in the region.
Notably, no specific date for the speech was proposed in the letter.
Johnson had previously stated that Netanyahu would address a joint meeting of Congress soon, despite tensions with President Joe Biden’s administration over Israel’s actions in Gaza. The Republican speaker was determined to extend the invitation, regardless of support from congressional Democratic leaders.
Biden’s backing of Israel during its conflict with Hamas has become a contentious issue, particularly among young Democrats, impacting his re-election campaign. The conflict led to protests and “uncommitted” votes in presidential primaries, highlighting the complexities of U.S. support for Israel.
The invitation to address Congress marks a significant honor, typically reserved for close U.S. allies or prominent world figures. Netanyahu’s acceptance would make him the first foreign leader to address joint meetings of Congress four times, surpassing Winston Churchill’s record.
The invitation came on the same day Biden announced Israel’s proposal for a Gaza ceasefire, reinforcing the importance of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
Netanyahu’s alignment with U.S. Republicans has been longstanding, evidenced by his recent address to Republican senators via video link.
However, his relationship with the Biden administration has been strained, as evident in Schumer’s criticism branding him as an obstacle to peace.
The formal invitation was initially reported by The Hill news website.
