Israeli President Isaac Herzog called on the United States to take strong action against Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon and reaffirmed his support for the independence of Israel's judiciary during a speech before a joint session of Congress on Wednesday.
Herzog emphasized the long-standing friendship between the U.S. and Israel before delving into policy matters. While he received a warm welcome from the chamber, he acknowledged the widespread protests in Israel against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposed judicial reforms.
In his address, Herzog expressed his strong opposition to allowing Iran to become a nuclear threshold state, stating, "Allowing Iran to become a nuclear threshold state whether by omission or by diplomatic commission is unacceptable. The world cannot remain indifferent to the Iranian regimes call to wipe Israel off the map. Tolerating this call and Irans measures to realize it is an inexcusable moral collapse." He called for decisive action by Israel and the United States, backed by the free world, to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapon capabilities.
Herzog also reiterated his support for Israeli democracy and addressed the ongoing protests against Netanyahu's judicial reforms. The proposed reforms seek to limit the powers of Israeli courts, including their authority to strike down government decisions deemed "unreasonable."
Herzog emphasized the importance of dialogue and finding common ground, stating, "As a nation, we must find the way to talk to each other no matter how long it takes. As head of state, I will continue doing everything to reach a broad public consensus and to preserve, protect, and defend the State of Israels democracy."
President Joe Biden has been critical of Netanyahu's efforts to reform the judiciary, but Republicans have urged the White House to invite Netanyahu to the U.S. Biden recently reached out to the Israeli leader to arrange a meeting later this year, reaffirming America's unwavering commitment to Israel.
Herzog commended the U.S. for its role in facilitating peace between Israel and other Middle Eastern nations, specifically highlighting the Abraham Accords negotiated under former President Donald Trump. He emphasized Israel's openness to peace with any nation.
Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Herzog condemned terrorist organizations in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasizing that Palestinian terror undermines the possibility of future peace. He highlighted the targeting of Israelis in terrorist attacks and the celebration and financial rewards given to terrorists and their families.
Herzog expressed his commitment to a future of peace and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians, stating, "The younger generation of Israelis and Palestinians deserve better. They are all worthy of a future to look toward, a future of peace and prosperity. A future of hope. I am wholeheartedly committed to this vision, a vision of hope and peace, true peace, without any terror."
Herzog acknowledged criticisms from members of Congress regarding Israel's treatment of Palestinians, stating that he respects criticism, "especially from friends," but emphasized that questioning Israel's right to exist crosses the line into antisemitism. He made it clear that criticism of Israel should not negate its right to self-determination.
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