Mike Johnson invites Netanyahu, causing controversy.
In the midst of rising tensions between the US government and Israel, Republican Mike Johnson plans to invite Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to address the House of Representatives. This decision could deepen the rift with the Democrats.
Mike Johnson, the Chair of the House of Representatives, desires to extend an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to deliver a speech in his chamber of congress, amid significant criticism surrounding the military operations in the Gaza conflict. On a recent occasion at an Israeli embassy event in Washington, Johnson disclosed this news.
No specific date for the speech has been provided by Johnson. He previously mentioned he was communicating with Netanyahu about scheduling the event, and that he intended to issue the official invitation this week. With the nation divided over the Gaza crisis, this action could spark further domestic political turmoil.
Democrats against Netanyahu's speech
The Democratic majority leader in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, is expected to accept an invitation to address the members of both the House and Senate as a matter of protocol. However, he faces pressure within his own party. Notable Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, Johnson's predecessor, have vocalized their opposition to a speech by Netanyahu.
Regardless, Johnson could potentially invite Netanyahu even if Schumer does not consent. His office confirmed on Tuesday that the plan would proceed regardless of Schumer's stance.
The response of US President Joe Biden to this situation is uncertain. Over the past few weeks, Biden has reaffirmed his support for Israel, while simultaneously criticizing the Israeli army's actions in the Gaza Strip.
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The controversial invitation from Republican Mike Johnson to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the House of Representatives could further strain relations with the Democrats, as notable Democrats like Nancy Pelosi have expressed their opposition to Netanyahu's speech.
This potential speech by Netanyahu in the midst of the Gaza conflict could further fuel domestic political discord in the USA, with Democrats and Republicans holding contrasting views on the situation.
Source: www.ntv.de
