Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, July 24th, more than nine months after the Hamas attack on October 7th and the onset of the Gaza conflict. His visit stirred significant controversy, drawing thousands of protesters to the Capitol and prompting some Democratic lawmakers to boycott his appearance.
Netanyahu received a prolonged ovation from Republican members as he entered Congress. “For the forces of civilization to triumph,” he asserted, “both countries must remain united.”
Expressing optimism about efforts to free hostages held by Hamas, Netanyahu stated that these endeavors “can be successful.” He thanked President Joe Biden for his “tireless efforts” on behalf of the hostages and underscored the vital bond between the U.S. and Israel.
“We are not only protecting ourselves. Our enemies are your enemies; our fight is your fight, and our victory will be your victory,” Netanyahu declared. He vowed that Israel would do “whatever it takes” to “restore security” on its northern border. He also shared his “vision for Gaza,” advocating for the “demilitarization and deradicalization of Gaza” to achieve “security, prosperity, and peace.”
Netanyahu criticized Iran’s policies, describing them as an “axis of terror” challenging the U.S., Israel, and their Arab allies. “This is not a clash of civilizations but a clash between barbarism and civilization,” he stated, labeling pro-Gaza activists as “Iran’s useful idiots,” asserting that Tehran finances these protests.
He honored former President Donald Trump for advancing the Abraham Accords and recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s “eternal and indivisible capital.” Netanyahu condemned the “heinous” assassination attempt on Trump on July 13 and noted his strong relationship with the former president.
On the eve of his meeting with Joe Biden, Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Biden’s support but emphasized that Israel needed weapons more swiftly to expedite its efforts. This address marks the fourth time—setting a record for a foreign leader—that Netanyahu has spoken to Congress, an honor typically reserved for state visits.
In Israel, Netanyahu’s speech was broadcast live on a large screen at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv. Israeli media highlighted the disappointment among hostage families, noting the absence of an anticipated announcement regarding a hostage release agreement. Instead, just before the speech, it was announced that negotiations would be postponed, as reported by Jerusalem correspondent Michel Paul.
An editorialist described Netanyahu’s address as one aimed at Americans, delivered by Israel’s most Americanized prime minister. “Bibi and his choir,” headlined one newspaper, criticized his focus on rhetoric over action. While some praised the speech’s brilliance and uncompromising stance, the right-wing daily Israel Hayom lamented the lack of a detailed post-war strategic plan for Gaza. Haaretz, the left-wing Israeli newspaper, noted that despite the spectacle, Netanyahu’s visit to Washington was largely marginalized, failing to address the war’s end meaningfully.
Netanyahu’s visit sparked intense debate in the U.S., coinciding with a politically charged period following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the upcoming presidential election, paving the way for Kamala Harris’s candidacy.