Israeli officials have expressed disappointment over Vice President Kamala Harris' decision to forgo Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress.
An anonymous Israeli official voiced their concern to the Telegraph, stating that Harris' choice to "boycott" Netanyahu's speech, particularly "during a difficult war against Iran and its terror proxies is disappointing." The official further criticized the lack of discernment in leadership, stating, The free world cannot afford leaders who are unable to distinguish between good and evil.
According to The New York Post, Harris' absence from Netanyahu's address is due to a prior commitment in Indianapolis. The scheduling of this event predates the planning of the Prime Minister's speech. Despite her absence from the address, Harris plans to hold a bilateral meeting with Netanyahu, where she intends to express her belief in the necessity to conclude the Israel-Hamas war.
Harris' decision has not been without criticism, particularly from Republican quarters. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) interpreted her move as indicative of a "pro-Hamas" bias among Democrats.
Netanyahu arrived in the U.S. on Monday, a day after President Biden announced the suspension of his re-election campaign. The Prime Minister took this opportunity to express his gratitude towards Biden for his contributions to Israel during his tenure in public service. Netanyahu stated, This will be an opportunity to thank him for the things he did for Israel in the war and during his long and distinguished career in public service, as senator, Vice President, and President.
Netanyahu remains steadfast in his belief in the strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance, insisting, Regardless of who the American people choose as their next President, Israel remains its most indispensable and strongest ally in the Middle East. This statement underscores the enduring bond between the two nations, irrespective of the changing political landscape.
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