Several Texas Democrats opted to boycott Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress due to their dissatisfaction with his handling of the recent conflict in Gaza. The decision was made in solidarity with their colleagues who had chosen to protest Netanyahu’s visit.
In a joint statement, Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson, Sheila Jackson Lee, and Al Green criticized Netanyahu for what they perceived as his failure to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and his disregard for Palestinian rights. They expressed concern over the civilian casualties and destruction caused by the recent conflict and called for a more balanced approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This decision highlights the deep divisions within the Democratic Party over US policy towards Israel and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. While some lawmakers, including President Joe Biden, have expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself, others have called for a more even-handed approach that takes into account the suffering of Palestinians.
The boycott comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with Israel and Hamas engaging in the worst violence seen in years. Many Democrats have criticized the Biden administration for not taking a stronger stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza and for continuing to provide military aid to the country.
Despite the boycott, Netanyahu’s speech to Congress went ahead as planned, with the Israeli leader reiterating his commitment to Israel’s security and defending his government’s actions in Gaza. The boycott by Texas Democrats serves as a reminder of the challenges facing the US in navigating the complex and often controversial relationship between Israel and the Palestinians.
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