Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer recently discussed his decision to attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress, emphasizing the strong U.S.-Israel relationship while also expressing his policy disagreements with Netanyahu. The event has sparked significant reactions from both supporters and critics within the Democratic Party.
Schumer’s Justification for Attending Netanyahu’s Speech
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) explained his presence at Netanyahu’s address, highlighting the importance of demonstrating the “ironclad” bond between the United States and Israel. However, Schumer deliberately chose not to shake Netanyahu’s hand, indicating his disapproval of certain policies.
“I went to this speech because the relationship between Israel and America is ironclad and I wanted to show that,” Schumer stated in an interview on CBS’s “Face the Nation.” He continued, “But at the same time, as everyone knows, I have serious disagreements with the way Benjamin Netanyahu has conducted these policies.”
Democratic Response to Netanyahu’s Address
Netanyahu’s speech received a warm reception from many attendees but faced significant backlash. Numerous Democrats boycotted the speech over Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza conflict. Among those who attended, some issued statements condemning his remarks.
Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) was notably critical. She did not attend the address and later called Netanyahu’s speech “by far the worst presentation of any foreign dignitary invited and honored with the privilege of addressing the Congress of the United States” in a post on X.
Schumer on U.S.-Israel Relations
When questioned about Pelosi’s comments and the decision to invite Netanyahu, Schumer stressed that the U.S.-Israel relationship transcends any individual leader.
“As I’ve said, I wanted to show our ironclad commitment to Israel that transcends any one prime minister or any one president,” Schumer explained. “No matter how much you might disagree with that prime minister.”
Conclusion
Schumer’s attendance at Netanyahu’s speech reflects his commitment to maintaining strong U.S.-Israel relations while acknowledging significant policy disagreements with Netanyahu. The event highlighted the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party regarding support for Israel and its current leadership.
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