Netanyahu Visits U.S. Congress, Meets with Both Presidential Candidates to Seek Continued Support | WPN World People News

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his fourth speech to the U.S. Congress on the 24th, seeking American support in the Israel-Palestine conflict. He emphasized the strong U.S.-Israel relationship by stating, "Israel's victory is America's victory," and urged continued U.S. military assistance. Netanyahu expressed confidence in the demilitarization and de-radicalization of Gaza after the conflict, believing that victory would lead to the release of hostages.

Despite his address, dozens of Democratic lawmakers, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who had a prior commitment, did not attend. Some Democratic members inside the chamber protested with signs calling Netanyahu a "war criminal," while outside, demonstrators also expressed their opposition. During his speech, Netanyahu referred to the protesters as "a bunch of useful idiots for Iran."

As the U.S. presidential election approaches, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to both Joe Biden and Donald Trump for their support of Israel. He thanked President Biden for his relentless efforts on behalf of the hostages and their families, expressing optimism that these efforts would succeed. He also acknowledged Trump's actions, including recognizing Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, countering Iran's aggression, and recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital by moving the U.S. embassy there.

Netanyahu strongly linked the fates of the U.S. and Israel, stating, "We are not only defending ourselves; we are also defending you. Our enemies are your enemies, our fight is your fight, our victory is your victory."

On the 25th, Netanyahu met separately with Biden and Harris. On the 26th, he is scheduled to visit Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida for further discussions. According to the White House, Netanyahu and Biden discussed "the situation in Gaza," "the progress of ceasefire efforts," and "the agreement to release hostages." Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Biden's continued support for Israel throughout his 50-year public service career and looked forward to further cooperation on current challenges in the coming months. Harris, who is set to succeed Biden as the Democratic presidential candidate, is not as pro-Israel as Biden. After the meeting, she described their conversation as "frank and constructive." While reaffirming U.S. support for Israel and Israel's right to self-defense, she also conveyed concern for the humanitarian situation in Gaza and stated that she would not remain silent on the issue.