Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, delivering a passionate speech that condemned those protesting the Gaza ceasefire across the United States. Netanyahu accused Iran of funding these protests, stating, “When the tyrants of Tehran who hang gays from cranes and murder women for not covering their hair are praising, promoting and funding you, you have officially become Iran’s useful idiots.” He went on to criticize those who chant “From the river to the sea,” saying many don’t understand the significance of the phrase.
Netanyahu’s speech was delivered to a nearly full House chamber, which included members of Congress and special guests like freed Israeli hostages and billionaire Elon Musk. Among those present was Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., a vocal critic of Israel who has called for Netanyahu’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Tlaib staged a silent protest throughout much of the speech, holding a sign that read “ceasefire now.” After multiple interactions with House Sergeant-at-Arms staff, Tlaib eventually put the sign down. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., was seen speaking with Tlaib before returning to her seat.
Netanyahu’s speech sought to link Israel’s war on Hamas and Iranian proxies in the Middle East to unrest within the U.S., emphasizing that Israel is Washington’s closest ally in an increasingly unstable region. “We’re not only protecting ourselves, we’re protecting you,” he stated, eliciting a standing ovation. “Our enemies are your enemies. Our fight is your fight. And our victory will be your victory. Ladies and gentlemen, that victory is in sight. Israel’s defeat of Hamas will be a powerful blow to Iran’s axis of terror.”
This was Netanyahu’s fourth address to Congress, and his first since Hamas launched its surprise attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. It comes as both the Biden administration and Democratic lawmakers are increasingly skeptical of Netanyahu’s handling of Israel’s response to the attack. During his remarks, Netanyahu argued that continued support for Israel is essential to avoid direct U.S. involvement in the conflict. He also compared the current conflict to World War II and himself to former U.K. Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
“We help keep American’s boots off the ground while protecting our shared interests in the Middle East. I deeply appreciate America’s support, including in this current war. But this is an exceptional moment. Fast tracking U.S. military aid can dramatically expedite an end to the war in Gaza and help prevent a broader war in the Middle East,” Netanyahu said. “In World War II, as Britain fought on the front lines of civilization, Winston Churchill appealed to Americans with these famous words – ‘Give us the tools and we’ll finish the job.’ Today, as Israel fights on the front line of civilization, I too appeal to America. Give us the tools faster and we’ll finish the job faster.”
Netanyahu’s comments were met with broad applause from Republicans, while the reaction from Democrats was more mixed. The speech highlights the growing fractures within the Democratic Party, with traditional Democrats more supportive of Israel and progressive Democrats increasingly critical of the Israeli government.
