The White House is worried about what Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might say when he addresses a joint session of Congress next month.
Senior White House officials are concerned that Netanyahu will use the speech to criticize President Joe Biden for not supporting Israel enough in its war against Hamas, according to Politico. Their concerns have grown with Netanyahu’s public statements showing frustration with the United States, including when he recorded an English-language video accusing the administration of withholding aid.
A senior official told Politico, “He could make it far worse up there in front of Congress.”
Another official told the outlet, “No one knows what he’s going to say.”
In the video, Netanyahu said the U.S. “has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel,” for “months.” It sparked frustration within the administration, and U.S. officials have denied the allegations. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a briefing the west wing had “no idea” what Netanyahu was referencing.
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Netanyahu was invited to speak to U.S. lawmakers by the leaders of both chambers, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). He is scheduled to speak on July 24.
Netanyahu and Biden have had a tense relationship, particularly since the IDF began their operation in Rafah. Biden has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and proposed deals to halt strikes and demand Hamas return the hostages taken on Oct. 7 to Israel.
