What It’s About
Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) of New York has criticized the decision to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the U.S. Congress on July 24, calling him a “war criminal.”
Why It Matters
The invitation to Netanyahu from House and Senate leaders signifies America’s strong support for Israel, but it faces opposition from progressive Democrats who criticize his approach to Gaza’s conflict. This divides Congress and influences U.S.-Israel relations amidst ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Details
House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries extended the invitation to demonstrate solidarity with Israel. Some progressive Democrats, including AOC, are opposed to this gesture, arguing that Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza violate human rights.
The Backdrop
The controversy is heightened by the International Criminal Court’s Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan seeking arrest warrants for high-ranking officials from both Israel and Hamas, including Netanyahu, following the conflict in Gaza triggered by a Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023.
What They’re Saying
“This man should not be addressing Congress. He is a war criminal,” AOC expressed on social media, questioning the appropriateness of the invitation given Netanyahu’s alleged human rights abuses and conflicts with U.S. law.
Representative Greg Casar from Texas echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for Netanyahu to cease operations in Gaza and questioning the timing of the visit.
What’s Next
Netanyahu’s address coincides with strained ties between the Biden administration and Israel, where President Biden has been critical of Netanyahu’s war tactics and Israel’s restriction on humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Conclusion
The debate over Netanyahu’s invitation to Congress reveals broader tensions and divergent views within U.S. political circles about the proper response to Middle East conflicts and supporting Israel’s right to self-defense amid accusations and calls for human rights advocacy. This visit will be pivotal in reinforcing or reshaping relationships and commitments between the U.S. and one of its key allies.
This story was first published on foxnews.com.