Overview
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress, praising the United States and proposing an “Abraham Alliance” between Israel and Arab states to combat Iran and its proxies. His speech emphasized the shared values and military cooperation between the U.S. and Israel.
Why It Matters
The increasing threats from Iran and its proxies necessitate strong alliances and military cooperation to safeguard U.S. and Israeli interests in the Middle East.
Who It Impacts
This impacts U.S. national security, Israel’s security, and the stability of the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of strategic alliances and military readiness.
In a stirring address to a joint session of Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded the United States and proposed a new “Abraham Alliance” between Israel and Arab states to confront Iran and its proxies. Netanyahu’s vision builds on the groundbreaking Abraham Accords, which established peace between Israel and four Arab nations, enjoying bipartisan support in the U.S.
Netanyahu’s speech comes as Israel continues to combat Hamas in Gaza following the brutal October 7 invasion, which resulted in the massacre of over 1,000 Israeli citizens. This marks Netanyahu’s fourth address to Congress, revisiting the Iranian threat he highlighted in 2015. He underscored that Iran is behind much of the terrorism and chaos in the region, quoting a Hezbollah leader who described Israel as a tool of America, with the real war being against the United States.
Applause for rescued hostage Noa Argamani during Benjamin Netanayhu's speech before Congress. pic.twitter.com/Nzn1dP3h3U
— Kassy Akiva (@KassyAkiva) July 24, 2024
The Prime Minister made a compelling case for the U.S. and Israel to stand united against Iran and terrorism, highlighting their shared democratic values and military cooperation. “Standing in Iran’s way is one proud, pro-American democracy. My country, the state of Israel,” Netanyahu declared. He stressed that Israel’s efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons protect not only Israel but also every American city.
Netanyahu also pointed out that Israel’s military actions in the Middle East help prevent American soldiers from being deployed in the region. He emphasized the joint development of advanced weapons systems that protect both nations and maintain American interests without requiring boots on the ground.
Rep. Rashida Tlaib holds up a "war criminal" sign during Benjamin Netanyahu's speech. pic.twitter.com/8qCMzL5ZH3
— Kassy Akiva (@KassyAkiva) July 24, 2024
Joining Netanyahu was Noa Argamani, a 26-year-old Israeli who was held hostage in Gaza for 245 days before being rescued. Her presence symbolized the human cost of terrorism and the importance of Israel’s mission to free all hostages and achieve complete victory over Hamas. Netanyahu honored the heroes who fought against Hamas on October 7, drawing parallels to the magnitude of the 9/11 attacks for Israel.
Looking ahead, Netanyahu asserted that Gaza must be demilitarized and deradicalized, with Israel maintaining security control to prevent future threats. He called for a Palestinian civilian administration in Gaza that does not seek Israel’s destruction.
Despite a boycott by over 50 Democratic lawmakers, Netanyahu underscored the importance of bipartisan support for Israel. He thanked both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump for their unwavering support, acknowledging Biden’s immediate condemnation of Hamas and Trump’s role in the Abraham Accords and recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Netanyahu also addressed the disturbing rise of anti-Semitic sentiments on American campuses and streets, condemning protesters as “useful idiots for Iran.” He highlighted the historical and enduring connection of the Jewish people to the Land of Israel, countering misinformation and anti-Semitic rhetoric with a firm reminder of Israel’s long-standing heritage.
In a call to action, Netanyahu urged the United States to expedite weapons shipments to Israel, invoking Winston Churchill’s famous plea for tools to finish the job in Europe. He reiterated that the war in Gaza could end immediately if Hamas surrendered and released all hostages, but affirmed Israel’s commitment to achieving total victory.
