The decision to allow Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress is an endorsement of war crimes, racism, and fascism. Netanyahu's actions in Gaza, which include the killing over 38,000 innocent people and the reckless bombing of civilian areas, amount to crimes against humanity. Congress must not give a platform to such a figure, especially as it contrasts with America's stance on other leaders accused of similar atrocities, like Vladimir Putin, displaying a glaring double standard.
Netanyahu's efforts to undermine democracy, embrace fascism, and push the U.S. into costly wars for his own agenda further underscores the inappropriateness of the invitation. Netanyahu's speech will exacerbate Islamophobia and legislators must reject this dangerous endorsement.
Background: Since October 7, over 38,000 Palestinians are known to have been killed, with thousands more under the rubble and unidentifiable. Tens of thousands are injured or missing. What we are seeing now is an unfathomable humanitarian crisis unfolding, with the entire population of Gaza facing a collapse of infrastructure, essential facilities, and food supply.
In 2015, Netanyahu also addressed Congress and interfered in U.S. policy by criticizing then-President Obama’s efforts at reaching a nuclear deal with Iran. It is inappropriate for someone like Netanyahu to be given another opportunity to insult the intelligence of the American people, where he is expected to call for more unconditional support for his war on Gaza and Palestinians. With a pending International Criminal Court arrest warrant, Netanyahu does not belong in the U.S. Capitol.
