House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint session of Congress, although the timing of the address is still unclear. Johnson made the announcement during an event hosted by the Israeli Embassy to mark Israel’s independence. It is seen as a show of support for the Israeli government during a time of need. Johnson’s office did not provide details on when the address will take place, and the Israeli Embassy has not commented on the invitation.
Despite not receiving a joint invitation from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., Johnson stated that he would be hosting Netanyahu in the House regardless. This announcement marks the formal confirmation of these plans. Schumer’s office did not respond to requests for comment about the announcement. Johnson had previously given Schumer a deadline to sign a joint letter inviting Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress, but since Schumer declined Netanyahu’s request to speak to Senate Democrats in March, Johnson proceeded with the invitation.
Earlier in March, Schumer criticized Netanyahu, accusing him of having “lost his way” and calling for new elections in Israel. President Joe Biden supported Schumer’s comments, expressing concern about Israel’s actions in the war. Biden has also been critical of Israel’s handling of the conflict, describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “unacceptable” and stating that Netanyahu’s actions were a mistake. This increased criticism from the Biden administration aligns with a shift in U.S. policy towards Israel.
The announcement of Netanyahu’s address to Congress comes amidst tensions between the U.S. and Israel over the handling of the war. Johnson’s decision to invite the Israeli Prime Minister to speak to Congress sends a powerful message of support to the Israeli government. The event is expected to be a significant moment in U.S.-Israel relations as the two countries navigate their differences in policy and approach to conflicts in the region. The details of the address, including the date and format, are still to be confirmed.
