Speaker Johnson to Invite Netanyahu to Address Congress

House Speaker Mike Johnson announced his plan to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress. This invitation is seen as a strong show of support for Israel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The announcement was made during an event at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, celebrating Israel’s 76th Independence Day.

Johnson's invitation comes at a time of significant international and domestic scrutiny of Netanyahu. The Israeli Prime Minister is currently facing an international arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes related to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Domestically, Netanyahu’s popularity has waned due to ongoing conflicts and political challenges.

Bernie Sanders says he won’t go when Netanyahu is invited to address a joint session of Congress.

Good on him pic.twitter.com/8mncikXXOg

— Casey Wright 🥖🎪 (@503i7) May 24, 2024

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has also expressed support for Netanyahu’s visit, despite his previous call for new elections in Israel.

Schumer's endorsement is notable given the divided opinions within the Democratic Party regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The expected speech has already sparked controversy, with some Democratic lawmakers planning to boycott the event.

*🇮🇱🇺🇸-House Speaker Johnson, at Israeli embassy reception, announces Netanyahu will be addressing a joint session of Congress.*

“This will be a timely and I think a very strong show of support to the Israeli government in their time of greatest need.” pic.twitter.com/ymFtEq0Q2p

— neveragainlivepodcast@gmail.com (@neveragainlive1) May 24, 2024

The invitation marks Netanyahu’s second address to a joint session of Congress. His first, in 2015, was marked by significant political fallout, particularly due to then-House Speaker John Boehner’s decision not to consult the White House before extending the invitation. This time, Johnson has ensured bipartisan backing, although the move still faces opposition from progressive Democrats who criticize Israel's handling of the conflict in Gaza.

The speech is expected to further highlight the U.S.-Israel relationship, emphasizing bipartisan support despite recent tensions between the Biden administration and Netanyahu’s government.

Johnson criticized President Joe Biden for what he described as inconsistent support for Israel, particularly regarding arms shipments and military aid.

This development underscores the ongoing political maneuvering surrounding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, as both Republicans and Democrats vie for influence over American-Israeli relations.