ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP
Benjamin Netanyahu, seen here during his speech before the US Congress, in Washington, July 24, 2024.
INTERNATIONAL – Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to the American Congress was expected this Wednesday, July 24. During it, the Israeli Prime Minister paid a vibrant tribute to Donald Trump, while the Republican is a candidate in the presidential election on November 5.
“I want to thank President Trump for everything he has done for Israel”the leader said, while denouncing the assassination attempt « ignoble » who targeted Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.
Benjamin Netanyahu also thanked Democratic President Joe Biden for “his tireless efforts on behalf of the hostages”.
In his speech, Benjamin Netanyahu also called on the United States and Israel to “stay united” “so that the forces of civilization triumph”after more than nine months of war in the Gaza Strip.
“In the Middle East, Iran’s axis of terror is challenging the United States, Israel and our Arab friends. This is not a clash of civilizations, but a clash between barbarism and civilization.”added the Israeli Prime Minister, who delivered a vibrant defense of the IDF.
The « victoire » Israel’s victory will also be a victory for the United States
He urged the United States to release new military aid to Israel, spoke of a demilitarized Gaza and “deradicalized” after the war and said to himself ” confident “ on the outcome of negotiations to free the hostages held by Hamas.
“I am convinced that these efforts can be crowned with success.”the leader said, thanking President Joe Biden “for his tireless efforts” in favor of the hostages. In the assembly to listen to the Israeli leader was Noa Argamani, a 26-year-old former hostage.
The « victoire » Israel’s victory will also be a victory for the United States, the Israeli prime minister assured. “We are not just protecting ourselves. We are protecting you… Our enemies are your enemies, our fight is your fight, and our victory will be your victory.”.
This is the fourth time – a record for a foreign leader – that Benjamin Netanyahu has addressed Congress in this way, an honor usually reserved for leaders on a state visit.
On Thursday, he will meet with President Biden, with whom he has a complicated relationship, to discuss “the situation in Gaza”, “progress made towards a ceasefire” et “of an agreement on the release of the hostages”according to the White House.
Kamala Harris, who did not attend his speech due to a previously scheduled trip, will meet separately with the Israeli leader on Thursday. In response to her absence, an Israeli government spokesperson said the speech was “more important than any individual”.
Benjamin Netanyahu will then travel to the Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Friday, at the invitation of Donald Trump, the two men saying they get along famously.
Source: www.huffingtonpost.fr
