Nidhish Waghmare
Deepening Congressional Divisions Over Netanyahu
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the U.S. Congress on July 24, 2024, has intensified existing political divides, particularly among Democrats, over his leadership during the Israel-Hamas conflict. The address, intended to reinforce bipartisan support for Israel, instead highlighted the contentious nature of Netanyahu’s leadership and his tactics in the Gaza conflict.
Democratic Boycott
Vice President Kamala Harris, along with numerous Democratic lawmakers, notably boycotted the speech. Harris, citing a scheduling conflict, was absent from her traditional role presiding over the event. This absence mirrored the broader Democratic discontent with Netanyahu, particularly from the party’s progressive wing.
Prominent progressives like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Representative Rashida Tlaib expressed strong opposition, labeling Netanyahu a “war criminal” and condemning his actions in Gaza. This sentiment was echoed by Representative Ilhan Omar, who allocated her guest tickets to the families of hostages, and Representative Pramila Jayapal, who also abstained from attending.
Rising Tensions in Congress
Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, spearheaded Netanyahu’s invitation, emphasizing the importance of supporting Israel amidst its conflict with Hamas. Johnson criticized Democrats for their absence, accusing them of political maneuvering during a critical time for Israel.
His stance reflects the deepening partisan rift over U.S. support for Netanyahu’s government.
Mixed Reactions Among Democrats
While some Democrats attended the address out of respect for the U.S.-Israel relationship, many were vocal about their reservations. Representative Jerrold Nadler of New York, although present, criticized the event as a partisan maneuver by Republicans. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland chose to abstain, denouncing Netanyahu’s leadership as a “political prop.”
Senator Richard J. Durbin of Illinois, the Senate’s No. 2 Democrat, and Senator Patty Murray of Washington also chose not to attend, reflecting widespread Democratic discontent. Durbin’s statement underscored the frustration: “I will stand by Israel, but I will not stand and cheer its current prime minister.”
Implications for U.S.-Israel Relations
Netanyahu’s visit comes at a time when U.S.-Israel relations are under scrutiny. Earlier this year, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Netanyahu to step down, criticizing his leadership during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite extending the invitation to Netanyahu, Schumer’s actions reflect the complexity of maintaining bipartisan support for Israel amidst growing international criticism of Netanyahu’s policies.
A group of former Israeli intelligence and security officials also voiced concerns, warning that Netanyahu’s speech could damage U.S.-Israel relations. They emphasized that Netanyahu, facing prosecution for major crimes, lacks a mandate from the Israeli people.
Netanyahu’s address to Congress has not only underscored existing political divides but also raised critical questions about the future of U.S.-Israel relations. As Democrats navigate their response to Netanyahu’s leadership, the implications of this speech will likely reverberate through the upcoming 2024 elections and beyond.
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