The announcement of the joint meeting
US House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will address the US Congress in a joint meeting on July 24. The objective of this meeting is to hear the vision of the Israeli government on the defense of democracy, the fight against terrorism and the establishment of a just and lasting peace in the region.
The invitation of the United States Congress
Republican and Democratic leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives sent a letter to Netanyahu inviting him to give a speech before both chambers. In the letter, they asked him to outline the Israeli Government’s vision on how to establish a just and lasting peace in the region. The letter was signed by Mike Johnson, Chuck Schumer, leader of the Democratic majority of the Senate, Hakeem Jeffries, leader of the Democratic caucus in the Lower House, and Mitch McConnell.
Criticism and support
Netanyahu’s speech will take place in a divided Congress and amid criticism from civil society and human rights organizations. The US Executive has received criticism for its unconditional support for Israel in its war against Gaza. However, leaders such as Chuck Schumer, the highest-ranking Jew in the United States, have expressed support for Netanyahu’s invitation, arguing that the relationship between the United States and Israel transcends a single person or the prime minister.
Spain’s position
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, José Manuel Albares, announced that Spain will join the lawsuit filed by South Africa before the International Court of Justice against Israel for alleged violation of the Convention against Genocide. This lawsuit is based on Israel’s military offensive in Gaza after the Hamas terrorist attack. Albares explained that Spain will intervene in the International Court of Justice procedure initiated by South Africa to address the situation in Gaza.
