House Democrats voice opposition to Netanyahu addressing Congress
The speech of Israel’s president without a Democrat-controlled Senate could further divide the support for Israel between parties.
According to Axios, Democratic Party legislators in the US have pushed back against an invitation to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for him to address Congress.
Republicans are calling for a joint meeting of the House of Representatives, Senate and other high-ranking Democrats. But they have been opposed by prominent Democrats.
Jim Himes, a Connecticut Democratic congressman, said that Netanyahu should “focus on freeing the hostages and not on charm legislators.”
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“It is not the right time… Let’s avoid complicating an already complex situation,” said Dan Kildee, a congressman.
Nancy Pelosi, former Speaker of the House and Congresswoman, also refused to allow Netanyahu to speak at a joint meeting.
The US has seen a growing divide in support for Israel, as prominent progressives, though a small minority, have spoken out against the Jewish state.
This divide could be exacerbated by a Netanyahu speech, particularly if the only place it’s held is in the Republican-controlled House.
In March, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said he would invite Netanyahu to give a speech. However, Israeli officials confirmed on Wednesday that the country has not been contacted.
He said on Wednesday that Democrat Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer had indicated a willingness to give a joint speech. However, if he doesn’t sign the invitation due to Democrat opposition, then the address will take place in the House of Representatives, with Senators being invited.
Schumer stated that he would “discuss this now with the Speaker and as I have always said, our relationships with Israel are ironclad and transcend any one president or prime minister,” but did not confirm his support.
In March, the senator expressed his opposition to Netanyahu and called for new elections in Israel.
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