On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at anti-Israel protesters demonstrating outside the US Congress against the Gaza war and his visit to the United States, labeling them as Iran’s “useful idiots.” In his impassioned speech, Netanyahu defended Israel’s stance on the Gaza conflict and sought American support amid thousands of demonstrators gathered at the Capitol.
“For all we know, Iran is funding the anti-Israel protests happening right now outside this building—not many, but they’re there—and throughout the city,” Netanyahu stated. “I have a message for these protesters: When the tyrants of Tehran, who hang gays from cranes and murder women for not covering their hair, praise, promote, and fund you, you have officially become Iran’s useful idiots,” he continued. He condemned the protesters, stating, “These protesters that stand with them, they should be ashamed of themselves.”
Context of Netanyahu’s Visit
Netanyahu’s visit comes at a critical juncture in the Gaza war, with US officials nearing a ceasefire agreement that could result in the release of hostages held by Hamas. However, US lawmakers remain divided on the conflict, with over 50 Democrats and independent Senator Bernie Sanders boycotting Netanyahu’s speech.
Protests and Arrests
Outside Washington’s Union Station, protesters demanded the US stop military aid to Israel, hoisting Palestinian flags and burning American ones. Near the Capitol, police used pepper spray on thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters who displayed nearly 30 human-size cardboard coffins wrapped in Palestinian flags. Traffic was barred from several roads near the Capitol.
Tall steel barriers surrounded the Capitol, and police deployed pepper spray as protesters denounced Netanyahu as a “war criminal” and called for a ceasefire. The Capitol Police reported about 200 arrests on Tuesday from a sit-in at the Cannon House Office Building. Jewish Voice for Peace claimed many more arrests, including rabbis.
Key Meetings
Netanyahu is scheduled to meet President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday. He will also meet former President Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Friday.
Netanyahu’s Speech Highlights
Netanyahu’s speech, lasting about an hour and interrupted by applause, aimed to strengthen US support for Israel, particularly for weapons supplies, amidst growing international criticism of the conflict in Gaza, which has the potential to escalate into a broader regional conflict.
He emphasized Israel’s efforts to secure the hostages’ release and envisioned a “demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza” led by Palestinians who do not seek Israel’s destruction. US officials have pressed Netanyahu for a post-war plan for Gaza. Netanyahu also discussed prospects for a broad Middle East security alliance between Israel and its Arab neighbors.
Netanyahu thanked both Biden and Trump for their support and sought to strengthen his ties with Republicans while easing tensions with Biden, whose support he will need for the remainder of his term.
Reaction to Netanyahu’s Speech
Some lawmakers expressed discomfort with endorsing Netanyahu and his hard-right coalition government amid his declining poll numbers in Israel.
Hamas responded to Netanyahu’s remarks, calling his claims about efforts to release hostages “pure lies and misleading to the Israeli, US, and global public opinion.” Hamas senior official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters that Netanyahu was not interested in a ceasefire deal and accused him of covering up for the failure and defeat against the resistance and the crimes committed in Gaza.
The Broader Implications
Netanyahu’s visit to the US and his fiery rhetoric underscores the deepening complexities and polarizations surrounding the Gaza conflict. His strong words against protesters, coupled with the intensifying demonstrations in the US, reflect a growing international divide over Israel’s actions in Gaza. The conflict, which has already resulted in significant loss of life and humanitarian crises, is now further complicated by geopolitical maneuvers and international diplomacy.
As Netanyahu navigates this challenging landscape, his meetings with US leaders, including President Biden and former President Trump, are crucial. These discussions are expected to focus on securing continued US support for Israel, particularly in terms of military aid and strategic alliances. The outcomes of these meetings will likely influence the trajectory of US-Israel relations and the broader Middle East dynamics.
In summary, Netanyahu’s visit to the US, marked by his sharp criticism of protesters and his efforts to bolster support for Israel, comes at a pivotal moment in the Gaza conflict. The protests, the divided opinions among US lawmakers, and the high-stakes diplomatic engagements all contribute to the intricate and evolving narrative of this long-standing and deeply contentious issue.
(With inputs from agencies)
