TEL AVIV, Israel: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a landmark speech to the US Congress on Wednesday, marking the fourth time he has addressed a joint session of the two chambers, surpassing Winston Churchill’s record of three. This high-profile visit comes amid intense pressure on Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire deal with Hamas following the October 7 attacks on Israel.
The ongoing Gaza conflict has strained relations between Israel and the United States, its primary military and diplomatic ally. Concerns are mounting in Washington over the high civilian casualties in Gaza and the political ramifications of the conflict. Protests in Israel from families of hostages held by Hamas are also complicating Netanyahu’s position.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that negotiations are nearing completion, with a proposed deal involving a six-week ceasefire and a swap of hostages and prisoners. However, Hamas has accused Netanyahu of obstructing the deal. Blinken aims to finalize the agreement during Netanyahu’s visit.
Netanyahu’s speech is expected to focus on defending Israel’s military actions in Gaza and shifting the narrative towards the broader threat posed by Iran and its allies. Despite Netanyahu’s assurances, the relationship between the Israeli prime minister and the White House is tense, with US President Joe Biden expressing concerns over Israel’s military strategies and previously suspending some arms supplies.
This visit comes at a time of significant international scrutiny. The International Criminal Court has sought arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, while the International Court of Justice has condemned Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. The visit also highlights a divide within US politics, with some lawmakers, including Jewish Senator Brian Schatz, choosing to boycott the speech.
Netanyahu’s trip to Washington aims to reinforce US-Israel relations and shift focus from the Gaza conflict to other geopolitical threats, while navigating the complex and strained dynamics with the US administration.
