Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged US lawmakers to support the Middle Eastern nation in its fight against Hamas. Netanyahu, who is visiting America, addressed US politicians on Wednesday, imploring them to give Jerusalem the tools to finish the job.
“If you remember one thing, one thing from this speech, remember this: Our enemies are your enemies, our fight is your fight, and our victory will be your victory,” a transcript of his speech read.
Netanyahu likened the October 7, 2023, attack to the deadly 9/11 attack in the US. “They butchered 1,200 people from 41 countries, including 39 Americans. Proportionately, compared to our population size, that’s like 20 9/11s in one day,” the Israeli PM said.
Calling Hamas a common enemy, Netanyahu said Israel and the US must stand together.
“For the forces of civilization to triumph, America and Israel must stand together. When we stand together, something very simple happens. We win. They lose.”
We meet today at a crossroads of history. Our world is in upheaval. In the Middle East, Iran's axis of terror confronts America, Israel and our Arab friends. This is not a clash of civilizations. It's a clash between barbarism and civilization. It's a clash between those who… pic.twitter.com/AKTaVJpR8o
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) July 25, 2024
According to reports, many Democrats opted to not attend the meeting, as a mark of protest. Netanyahu’s visit to the US was also protested by thousands of people outside the US Congress.
This was the Israeli leader’s fourth address to the US Congress.
Meanwhile, former US President and current Republican Presidential nominee Donald Trump said he’s looking to solve the issue in the Middle East.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump said he’s looking forward to his meeting with Netanyahu. “Looking forward to seeing Bibi Netanyahu on Friday, and even more forward to achieving Peace in the Middle East! DJT,” his post read.
