Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the United States Congress on Wednesday, July 23, 2024. However, Vice President Kamala Harris will not be in attendance or presiding over the event due to a previously scheduled commitment to attend the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Grand Boule in Indiana. Senate President pro tempore Patty Murray has also reportedly refused to preside over Netanyahu's speech. Netanyahu is expected to meet with President Joe Biden on Thursday during his visit to Washington, D.C.
Netanyahu's visit comes at a fraught time for both Israel and the US, as tensions remain high between the two allies following Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli prime minister has faced criticism in Israel for avoiding closing a cease-fire and hostage-release deal, which some believe he is delaying to stay in power.
A group of senior Israeli figures, including former national security officials, academics, and business leaders, have sent a letter to US congressional leadership accusing Netanyahu of threatening both Israeli and American national security. Among the signatories are five former senior officials from the Mossad intelligence service and two former heads of the Israeli military.
Netanyahu's speech to Congress is seen as highly politicized, with some viewing it as an attempt to show himself as a global statesman and secure support from American lawmakers and leaders. However, his legal troubles in Israel have raised concerns about his motivations for visiting the US at this time.
The Israeli prime minister's visit comes amid protests against his visit in the US, with some criticizing him for human rights violations against Palestinians and others expressing support for Israel's right to defend itself from Hamas and other militant groups backed by Iran. The situation remains complex, with both sides claiming justification for their actions.
As a neutral journalist, it is important to report on all facts related to this story without bias or deception. The sources used in this article include articles from Fox News, Times of Israel, AP News, and The Atlantic.