In a significant display of internal dissent, more than 200 anonymous staff members from 122 Democratic and Republican congressional offices have signed a letter urging Congress to protest or boycott Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming speech on Capitol Hill. The opposition stems from growing concerns about the ongoing war in Gaza, where Netanyahu’s government stands accused of using starvation as a weapon and committing actions that some have labeled as genocide. These serious allegations have intensified the controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s visit to the United States.
The letter, orchestrated by the Congressional Progressive Staff Association and bearing the signatures of 230 House and Senate staffers, frames the opposition to Netanyahu’s July 24 joint address to Congress as an “issue of morality” rather than a matter of partisan politics. This stance underscores the ethical dimensions of the conflict and its impact on public opinion within the United States. “Citizens, students, and lawmakers across the country and the world have spoken out against the actions of Mr. Netanyahu in his War on Gaza,” the letter states, emphasizing the global nature of the opposition to Israel’s military campaign. It also points to the internal dissent within Israel itself, noting that “Israelis have been protesting in the streets for months, decrying his failure to negotiate a ceasefire and release of hostages.” The staffers conclude their appeal with a direct call to action: “We hope you will join your fellow Members of Congress in protest at his speech or in refusing to attend it.”
This is not the first time that congressional staffers, particularly those aligned with progressive causes, have voiced their concerns about the situation in Gaza. Previous demonstrations in November and May saw staffers calling for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian militant group. These actions reflect a growing trend of activism among congressional staff, who are increasingly willing to take public stands on contentious foreign policy issues.
The opposition to Netanyahu’s speech is not limited to staff members. Several Democratic lawmakers have already announced their intention to protest the address, which was organized following a May invitation extended by the top Democratic and Republican leaders in both chambers of Congress. The Congressional Progressive Caucus, comprising approximately 100 members in the House and Senate, is expected to present a united front in either boycotting or protesting the speech in some capacity.
One of the most vocal critics of Israel’s war in Gaza, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), has been particularly outspoken about the decision to invite Netanyahu. Earlier this month, Sanders criticized congressional leaders for extending the invitation at a time when the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 38,000 Palestinians since the war began on October 7, 2023. The conflict was triggered by a Hamas invasion of southern Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the taking of roughly 250 hostages. Sanders, who has previously referred to Netanyahu as a “war criminal,” has reaffirmed his decision to abstain from attending the joint session.
Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to Washington carries significant diplomatic weight. In addition to his address to Congress, the Israeli Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with President Biden at the White House, marking his first visit since 2020. This joint address to Congress is Netanyahu’s first since 2015, an event that was notable for the boycott by 58 lawmakers who expressed concerns about his opposition to the Iran nuclear deal being negotiated at the time between Tehran and then-President Obama’s administration.
The current opposition to Netanyahu’s address is set against the backdrop of widespread international criticism of Israel’s nearly 10-month war in Gaza. The humanitarian situation in the territory has reached crisis levels, with Palestinians struggling to access basic necessities such as food and water. The United Nations has declared that no location in Gaza can be considered safe from airstrikes and other military operations, underscoring the pervasive danger faced by civilians in the conflict zone.
The Biden administration has been actively working towards brokering a deal that would achieve a cease-fire and secure the release of the approximately 120 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. While recent statements have indicated progress in these negotiations, a concrete agreement has yet to be announced. The ongoing diplomatic efforts add another layer of complexity to Netanyahu’s visit and the reception he is likely to receive on Capitol Hill.
The opposition to Netanyahu’s address reflects a broader shift in American public opinion and political discourse regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. Traditionally, support for Israel has been a bipartisan issue in American politics. However, in recent years, and particularly since the outbreak of the current war in Gaza, there has been a growing divide, with more progressive elements of the Democratic Party becoming increasingly critical of Israeli policies and actions.
This shift is evident not only in the halls of Congress but also on college campuses, in civil society organizations, and among younger voters. The letter from congressional staffers is indicative of this changing landscape, representing a new generation of political operatives who are more willing to challenge long-standing foreign policy positions.
The controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s visit also highlights the complex relationship between the United States and Israel. While the two countries remain close allies, there have been increasing tensions, particularly during the Netanyahu government’s tenure. Issues such as Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, the treatment of Palestinians, and disagreements over the Iran nuclear deal have strained the relationship at times.
As Netanyahu prepares to address Congress, he faces a challenging diplomatic landscape. On one hand, he will likely seek to reinforce the importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance and to rally support for Israel’s security concerns. On the other hand, he will need to address the growing criticism of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis that has ensued.
The reception Netanyahu receives on Capitol Hill will be closely watched both domestically and internationally. The level of attendance, the nature of any protests, and the content of his speech could all have significant implications for U.S.-Israel relations and for the broader dynamics of Middle East politics.
For members of Congress, the decision to attend or boycott the speech presents a delicate political calculation. Those who choose to attend may face criticism from progressive constituents and advocacy groups, while those who boycott may be accused of undermining a key U.S. alliance. The situation underscores the increasing complexity of Middle East policy for U.S. lawmakers and the growing influence of progressive voices on foreign policy issues.
As the date of Netanyahu’s address approaches, the controversy surrounding it serves as a reminder of the deep divisions that exist both within the United States and internationally regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. It also highlights the evolving nature of political activism within the halls of Congress, where staff members are increasingly willing to take public stands on contentious issues.
The outcome of this event, including the level of attendance, the nature of any protests, and the content of Netanyahu’s speech, will likely have lasting implications for US-Israel relations, the peace process in the Middle East, and the internal dynamics of American politics. As such, it will be closely watched by political observers, diplomats, and citizens alike, both in the United States and around the world.
