Democrats boycott Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress on Wednesday was marked by significant boycotts from Democratic lawmakers, with at least 96 skipping the event, nearly double the number from his previous address in 2015. Prominent critics, such as Representative Rashida Tlaib and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, condemned Netanyahu's handling of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, with Tlaib labeling him a 'war criminal'. Vice President Kamala Harris also opted out of the joint session, citing prior commitments, which drew criticism from conservative commentators who viewed it as a failure to support Israel amid rising tensions. The divisions within Congress reflect broader divisions among the American public regarding U.S. support for Israel, particularly in light of the death toll in Gaza exceeding 39,000 since the conflict escalated. Netanyahu's visit is seen as a maneuver to bolster ties with Republicans while potentially isolating him from Democrats, especially in the context of Biden's recent withdrawal from the presidential race. As protests continue outside, many Democratic lawmakers have organized alternative events to coincide with the address, showcasing the deepening rifts over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.