Congress invites Netanyahu to speak at the Capitol

Congressional leaders have invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the Capitol, demonstrating support for Israel during its ongoing military operations in Gaza, despite increasing political divisions in the U.S. over the conflict.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (Republican), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (Democrat), Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries extended the invitation. The date for Netanyahu’s speech has not been set yet.

The leaders emphasized the invitation aims to “highlight America’s solidarity with Israel.” They stated, “We invite you to share the Israeli government’s vision for defending democracy, combating terror, and establishing a just and lasting peace in the region.”

Netanyahu’s speech is expected to reveal election-year divisions in the U.S., with many Democrats distancing themselves from the right-wing prime minister while Republicans show strong support. Johnson had first proposed the invitation, calling it “a great honor.” Schumer, despite criticizing Netanyahu for his actions in Gaza, agreed to join the invitation due to the “ironclad” relationship between the U.S. and Israel.

The Israel-Hamas war, which began with Hamas’s surprise attack on October 7, has led to widespread concern over Israel’s military actions and the high civilian death toll. As Israel advances into Rafah in Gaza, the International Criminal Court has accused Netanyahu and his defense minister, along with three Hamas leaders, of war crimes, a symbolic move that further isolates Netanyahu.

President Joe Biden has supported Israel’s right to defend itself but has criticized some of Israel’s war strategies and pushed for humanitarian aid. Recently, Biden endorsed a three-phase deal proposed by Israel to Hamas, aimed at releasing remaining hostages in Gaza and ending the war. He urged both sides to agree to an extended ceasefire, arguing Hamas is “no longer capable” of another large-scale attack like the one in October. Biden called the proposal “a road map to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.”

It is uncertain whether Biden and Netanyahu will meet in Washington.

Meanwhile, Spain, Norway, and Ireland have recognized a Palestinian state, a move condemned by Israel. Slovenia’s government has also supported a motion to recognize a Palestinian state and asked its parliament to follow suit.

High-profile congressional invitations are typically coordinated with the White House. However, in 2015, Netanyahu was invited to address Congress by a previous Republican speaker, bypassing then-President Barack Obama amid disputes over Iran.

On Capitol Hill, debates over the Israel-Hamas war have been intense and divisive, reflecting the weakening and splintering support for Israel that was once steadfast. Republicans, including Donald Trump, have been eager to show their support for Netanyahu and highlight Democratic divisions over Israel.

Recently, Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York became the highest-ranking Republican official from the U.S. to speak before the Israeli parliament.