WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) -Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will deliver a joint address to Congress Wednesday.
This marks the leader’s first visit abroad since the war in Gaza broke out October 7th.
This is also the prime minister’s first time traveling since the International Criminal Court put a warrant for his arrest over alleged war crimes.
Controversy over the now 9-month long war is looming over his visit which is aimed at strengthening U.S.- Israeli relations.
Several Democrats are boycotting, and hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested on Capitol Hill Tuesday.
House Speaker Mike Johnson spearheaded the effort to invite Netanyahu to speak weeks ago.
Republicans say they’re united behind Israel’s efforts to bring remaining hostages’ home.
“We have to be clear the Israel is not alone, it has never been more important than it is to stand with our closest ally in Middle East,” said Johnson.
Democrats however are split. Some Democrats critical of Netanyahu’s handling of the war are boycotting the speech.
“Members are going to make their own decisions, I personally will be there…when world leaders come to the people’s chamber it’s important that we hear their perspective,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.).
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians
Vice President Kamala Harris will not preside over the speech. Her office says she has a scheduling conflict and next in line, Senator Patty Murray, declined to step in.
“They landed on Senator Cardin who is retiring from the Senate,” said Johnson.
Speaker Johnson accused Democrats of placing politics above Israel’s future
The vice president’s office says she will meet with the prime minister on Thursday.
Separately, President Biden will sit down with Netanyahu and his administration insists they are inching closer than ever to a ceasefire deal.
