WASHINGTON, USA: In a powerful address to the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu passionately called for the formation of a global alliance to confront what he described as the “axis of terror” led by Iran.
His speech, delivered amid a highly charged atmosphere both inside and outside the Capitol, underscored the deepening tensions in the Middle East and the significant international ramifications of the ongoing conflict.
Netanyahu’s speech came at a time when Washington is increasingly concerned about the humanitarian impact of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. With protests in both Israel and the United States growing louder, the Israeli leader sought to shift focus towards a broader geopolitical challenge. He accused Iran of actively supporting and funding anti-Israel demonstrations in the U.S., labeling the protestors as “Iran’s useful idiots.”
According to Netanyahu, Iran’s influence extends beyond regional conflicts and is a central force behind various sectarian clashes across the Middle East. He argued that Tehran’s actions threaten not only Israel but also global security. The Prime Minister called for a united international effort to counteract Iran’s influence, suggesting that countries with peace agreements with Israel—and those who might pursue such agreements—should join this global coalition.
Netanyahu’s address was met with a complex mix of reactions. Inside the Capitol, his speech was overshadowed by significant protests. Demonstrators, some of whom clashed with police and were kept away from the Capitol building, expressed their discontent with Israel’s actions in Gaza. The protestors’ anger was further fueled by Netanyahu’s allegations against Iran, which many viewed as an attempt to shift focus from the humanitarian crisis.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Washington also highlighted the political divisions within the U.S. Congress. While Netanyahu received a standing ovation from some lawmakers, others were critical of his approach. Notably, some prominent Democrats, including Palestinian-American Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, labeled Netanyahu a “war criminal” and accused him of genocide. The discord within Congress reflects broader American divisions on the issue of Israeli military actions and U.S. support.
Outside of his address, Netanyahu’s call for increased U.S. military aid to Israel was another focal point of his speech. He urged for expedited support to help end the war in Gaza and prevent potential wider conflicts in the Middle East. Despite his pleas, there was notable backlash from Democrats who felt that the speech lacked substantial content on achieving a peaceful resolution.
The ongoing conflict, which began with Hamas’s attack on October 7, has led to significant casualties on both sides. As of the latest reports, over 1,197 people have died in Israel, and at least 39,145 people have been killed in Gaza mostly women and children. Netanyahu expressed confidence in the efforts to secure the release of 114 hostages still held in Gaza, despite continued heavy casualties.
The speech also came amidst a backdrop of international mediation efforts. The Biden administration has been actively involved in trying to broker a ceasefire and a deal for the hostages. A senior administration official indicated that negotiations were in the “closing stages,” emphasizing the need for a resolution to the conflict.
Netanyahu’s address to Congress was a significant moment in the ongoing discourse over Middle Eastern politics. His call for a global alliance against Iran and increased military support for Israel reflects both the escalating nature of the conflict and the complex international dynamics at play.
