He still pledges to destroy Hamas, as Biden tells him to stop the war
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to make history as the only world leader to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress four times. His upcoming speech in Washington is expected to be significant, with high expectations for dramatic announcements regarding Israel’s stance on the Gaza war, Iran, and the expansion of the Abraham Accords. However, the true drama could unfold if Netanyahu announces an agreement to release hostages held by Hamas.
Netanyahu is known for his impactful speeches and political theater, such as his 2012 UN speech with a bomb cartoon illustrating the Iranian nuclear threat. Yet, the possibility of a hostage agreement is not solely in his hands; Hamas must also agree. Negotiations are ongoing, but details remain unclear, leaving much speculation about the potential for a deal.
“What members of Congress should think about during Netanyahu’s address” (@TheHillOpinion) https://t.co/EWIpZ05bMd
— The Hill (@thehill) July 19, 2024
There is an ongoing debate within Israel about whether to use military might or negotiate to free the hostages. Critics accuse Netanyahu of not wanting a deal for political reasons, fearing it could collapse his government. Supporters argue he is concerned about the precedent a deal might set, potentially empowering Hamas further.
Recent signals from Israel’s security establishment suggest they favor reaching a deal now, even if it means pausing the war. They argue that securing the hostages could partially redeem the military’s failure to protect citizens on October 7. However, Netanyahu’s opponents suspect he wants the war to continue to avoid elections and a state commission of inquiry.
Netanyahu’s visit, and the likely support he will receive from members of Congress, is intended to apply pressure on Biden during a tough presidential election., writes @stevenacook. https://t.co/gNfM3AExPo
— Council on Foreign Relations (@CFR_org) July 19, 2024
With Netanyahu’s speech to Congress approaching, the stakes are high. Any announcement or lack thereof could impact U.S.-Israel relations and Netanyahu’s political standing. Biden, needing a political win, may exert pressure, while Netanyahu faces increased domestic pressure if no progress is made. The visit is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing hostage negotiations.
Key Points:
- Prime Minister Netanyahu will make history by addressing a joint session of the U.S. Congress for the fourth time.
- Expectations are high for dramatic announcements, potentially including a hostage release agreement with Hamas.
- Netanyahu faces internal debate and criticism over using military force versus negotiating with Hamas for hostages.
- Israel’s security establishment signals a preference for a deal now to secure hostages and partially redeem past failures.
- The outcome of Netanyahu’s speech and meeting with Biden could significantly impact U.S.-Israel relations and Netanyahu’s political standing.
Kirk Volo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
