Netanyahu's Invitation to Congress Draws Ire from Progressive Democrats

Amid calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, progressive Democrats within the "Squad" are denouncing the decision to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress, accusing him of being a "war criminal" and criticizing his handling of the ongoing conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming address to Congress has sparked outrage among progressive Democrats, who are condemning his handling of the Gaza crisis and demanding that he be held accountable for alleged war crimes.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., expressed disappointment at House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries' and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's decision to invite Netanyahu, calling it "creating a platform and welcoming an accused war criminal."

Pressley's sentiments are echoed by other members of the "Squad," including Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, who has accused Netanyahu of "bombing indiscriminately in Gaza" and violating the president's red line by continuing military operations in Rafah. Casar has declared he will not attend Netanyahu's speech and will advocate for a ceasefire.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has labeled Netanyahu's appearance "unproductive" and "counterproductive" at a time when efforts are being made to secure a ceasefire. She has hinted that she may not attend the address.

Reps. Cori Bush, D-Mo., and Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., have declined to comment on the matter.

The invitation to Netanyahu, initiated by Republican Speaker Mike Johnson, has put a spotlight on the growing rift between progressive and establishment Democrats regarding Israel's conflict in Gaza.

Progressives have criticized President Biden for not taking a stronger stance against Netanyahu and have warned that his handling of the situation could cost him the 2024 presidential election.

The controversy has also reignited debate over the International Criminal Court's (ICC) potential prosecution of Israeli and Hamas officials, including Netanyahu. Despite opposition from the White House, 42 Democrats voted in favor of sanctions against the ICC if it were to pursue such an investigation.

The dispute over Netanyahu's invitation to Congress reflects the deep divisions within the Democratic Party on foreign policy, particularly on issues related to Israel and the Middle East.