In a forceful address to a joint meeting of Congress on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently dismissed allegations from the United Nations, human rights groups, and the International Criminal Court that Israel has committed war crimes in Gaza. He labeled pro-Palestinian protesters as “idiots” and tools of Iran, emphasizing Israel’s unwavering stance.
Netanyahu declared to U.S. lawmakers that Israel seeks “nothing less” than a complete victory over Hamas, presenting a vision for postwar Gaza that contrasts sharply with the peace deal advocated by the Biden administration. He stressed the interconnected fate of Israel and the United States, asserting that U.S. investment in Israel’s military efforts also serves to protect America and “all democracies.”
“We help keep Americans’ boots off the ground,” Netanyahu asserted, urging Congress to expedite the delivery of billions of dollars in U.S. weapons to Israel. “Give us the tools faster, and we’ll finish the job faster,” he insisted.
Netanyahu’s nearly hour-long speech came as his far-right government approaches its tenth month of war in Gaza. Local authorities report 39,000 Palestinian deaths amidst relentless bombardment and famine. Meanwhile, a majority of Israelis want Netanyahu to step down. His address faced a sharply divided Congress, with Republican leaders criticizing the numerous Democrats who boycotted the event and many Democrats condemning the decision to host a foreign leader accused of war crimes.
Arriving on Capitol Hill in a bulletproof motorcade, Netanyahu passed through heavy security while protesters carrying Palestinian flags marched through downtown Washington, denouncing his actions and calling for an end to U.S. weapon shipments to Israel.
During his speech, police clashed with protesters nearby, using tear gas to disperse crowds and making multiple arrests, including five individuals inside the House chamber. In Tel Aviv, hundreds of Israelis, including families of slain Israeli hostages, protested, blaming Netanyahu for prolonging the war for political survival.
“Benjamin Netanyahu, my grandfather could have been alive today with us,” cried Eliya Dancyg, granddaughter of hostage Alex Dancyg, in Tel Aviv. “He was waiting for someone to come save him. He was waiting for you to seal the deal.”
Over 50 Democratic lawmakers and at least one Republican boycotted the speech, calling it “political theater” and distancing themselves from a leader they accuse of committing genocide.
“I am past pissed off. I am past upset. I am absolutely ashamed of what is happening,” said Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.), alongside other Democrats and former officials who resigned in protest of the administration’s Israel policy. “Our government has been actively complicit in genocide every step of the way,” Bush added.
Netanyahu’s fourth congressional address highlighted Israel’s enduring role in American foreign policy and its status as the largest recipient of U.S. military aid. While Democrats waver in their support, Republicans, led by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), warmly received Netanyahu, praising his leadership since Hamas’s cross-border attack on Israel that resulted in 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages.
From the dais, Netanyahu was unrepentant, disputing claims that Israel blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza and asserting that Israel’s military has minimized civilian casualties. He promised a heavy price for those attacking Israel and dismissed contrary views as “Iran’s useful idiots” and antisemitic.
Netanyahu painted Iran as the root of Middle East instability and called for American solidarity to defeat such an enemy. Confident in U.S. support, he framed Israel’s war as crucial for protecting the United States, “civilization,” and democracy.
“This is not a clash of civilizations. It’s a clash between barbarism and civilization,” Netanyahu declared, receiving cheers and applause in the House chamber while protesters burned his effigy outside.
If Israel falls, “America is next,” he warned. “And I’ll tell you what else is next: the ability of all democracies to fight terror.”
Despite growing criticism from the Biden administration and many Democrats, U.S. support for Israel remains steadfast, with continuous military aid and diplomatic backing.
Many Democrats attended the speech reluctantly. Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) chose to attend out of respect for Israel but considers Netanyahu “the worst leader in Jewish history.”