Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the U.S. Congress in Washington, D.C., this morning. In his speech, he sought to strengthen U.S. support, particularly for weapons supplies, amid increasing international criticism after over nine months of conflict in the Palestinian enclave. He also mentioned a possible future partnership between Israel and Arab nations to broaden the West Asia security alliance.
Mr. Netanyahu stated that Israel is actively working to secure the release of the hostages. He said his government envisions a post-war Gaza that is “demilitarised and deradicalized,” led by Palestinians who do not aim to destroy Israel. Dozens of Democrats boycotted Netanyahu’s remarks, and thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated nearby. Netanyahu said that the anti-Israel protesters stand with Hamas and “should be ashamed of themselves.” He added that those who are charging without evidence are backed by Iran’s propaganda.
The speech by the Israeli Prime Minister was a record fourth speech by a foreign leader to a joint meeting of the Senate and House of Representatives, surpassing British wartime leader Winston Churchill, who made three. Hamas-led fighters triggered the war on 7th October by storming into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 captives, according to Israeli tallies.
