Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address a joint session of Congress on July 24, AP reported, citing sources.AP further reported that Congressional leaders extended a formal invitation to Netanyahu last week, showcasing continued support for the ally amidst ongoing political divisions regarding Israel's military actions against Hamas in Gaza.Though the speech date was uncertain, it has now been confirmed for July 24, the source told AP.Also Read: Israel, Hezbollah on brink of ‘full-scale war’; pressure on PM Netanyahu to secure borderHouse Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, along with Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, signed the letter extending the invitation to Netanyahu. They said the offer was intended to “highlight America's solidarity with Israel."The political climate surrounding Netanyahu's upcoming address to Congress is anticipated to be contentious, with potential protests both inside and outside the Capitol.
The event will likely underscore the divisions within Congress, particularly among Democrats, regarding Netanyahu's handling of the conflict with Hamas.Democratic lawmakers most critical of Netanyahu's strategy are expected to be no-shows for the address. Sen.
Bernie Sanders, the independent from Vermont, said: “Netanyahu is a war criminal. I certainly will not attend."Netanyahu's visit to the Capitol also came after the relationship between US President Joe Biden and the leader of the Jewish state had been frayed in recent months.Also Read: Biden Denies Netanyahu Playing Politics in War After Hinting ItBiden has privately and publicly criticized Netanyahu's handling of the war and criticized the
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