Israeli Leader Urges U.S. Support to Crush Hamas in Capitol Address

WASHINGTON — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed victory over Hamas militants and affirmed that “America has our back” during a congressional address on Wednesday that led to protests and a notable Democratic boycott due to Israel’s prolonged offensive in Gaza.

“Our enemies are your enemies, our fight is your fight, and our victory will be your victory,” Netanyahu told lawmakers. “Ladies and gentlemen, that victory is in sight.”

As Netanyahu spoke, Israeli airstrikes in Khan Younis, Gaza, brought the death toll to over 39,000, Gaza health authorities reported.

Calls for the release of captives grew more urgent following news of two additional deaths among those held by Hamas.

The ongoing conflict began nearly ten months ago when Hamas launched a surprise assault on October 7, 2023, killing more than 1,100 people and capturing around 200 hostages in one day.

Netanyahu detailed the “sheer evil” of the attacks and expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden for supporting Israel during its “darkest hour.”

“This is not a clash of civilizations. It’s a clash between barbarism and civilization,” Netanyahu said. “America and Israel must stand together for the forces of civilization to triumph.”

Netanyahu highlighted a rescued hostage in the gallery and assured American families of hostages that he is committed to their return. Also present were Israeli service members seated behind Republican lawmakers.

GOP lawmakers briefly chanted “USA” as Netanyahu warned of Iran’s threats to both Israel and America.

“At the heart of the Middle East, standing in Iran’s way, is one proud democracy, my country, the state of Israel,” Netanyahu said.

Not all lawmakers were supportive during the extended speech. Many Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, remained seated while Netanyahu criticized anti-Israel protesters.

Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan raised a sign reading “Guilty of genocide” in response to Netanyahu’s dismissal of International Criminal Court accusations against him.

Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions and refuted ICC claims of deliberate harm to Gaza civilians, accusing Hamas of stealing humanitarian aid and using civilians as human shields.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Netanyahu were greeted with applause, while Johnson accused adversaries of using “information wars” against Israel.

Vice President Kamala Harris was absent from Netanyahu’s address, focusing on campaign stops instead. She and President Biden are set to meet with Netanyahu and the families of American hostages on Thursday.

Statements from the White House emphasized discussions on Gaza developments and U.S. security commitments to Israel.

The Republican National Committee criticized Harris’s absence, labeling it a “disgraceful snub.” Senate’s president pro tempore, Patty Murray, also did not attend, opposing the ongoing war.

Sen. Ben Cardin presided over the session behind Netanyahu, emphasizing the strong ties between the U.S. and Israel transcending politics.

Many Democrats chose to boycott Netanyahu’s address, protesting the high civilian death toll in Gaza and the delay in a ceasefire agreement.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Netanyahu’s speech the “worst presentation” by any dignitary to Congress. Rep. Mark Pocan criticized the invitation to Netanyahu as “wildly inappropriate” due to alleged human rights violations.

Other Democrats, such as Rosa DeLauro and Summer Lee, also condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and boycotted the speech.

The rare Republican absence was Rep. Thomas Massie, who viewed Netanyahu’s address as “political theater” meant to boost his standing.

During the day, thousands of protesters gathered in Washington, waving Palestinian flags and burning effigies of Netanyahu. Capitol Police reported multiple arrests both outside and inside the Capitol.

Netanyahu’s visit came nearly a year after Israeli President Isaac Herzog addressed Congress on Israel’s 75th anniversary amid protests against Netanyahu’s judiciary reforms in Israel.

Negotiations for a U.S. and internationally-backed cease-fire continue to stall in Cairo. Last week, Israel’s parliament rejected the Biden administration’s proposal for a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu also planned meetings with hostage families and evangelical leaders in Washington. Former President Donald Trump announced he would host Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Friday.