Netanyahu to Congress: “America and Israel Must Stand Together”

Netanyahu began his speech calling the fight in Gaza part of “Iran’s axis of terror” emphasizing that Iran’s regime is “virtually behind all terrorism” and “killing” in the Middle East. He noted when Israel fights Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, they are fighting Iran. In addition, he stated that the chants in Iran begin with “Death to Israel” but finish with “Death to America,” and only the “pro-American democracy” of Israel stands in Iran’s way. He then reminded Congress of October 7 when Hamas terrorists invaded Israel beheading men, raping women, and burning babies alive. He stated that altogether they killed 1,200 people, including 39 Americans. He pointed out that 255 people were taken hostage, 135 of which Israel has freed, including some during a daring “commando” operation. During his remarks, Netanyahu honored rescued captive Noa Argamani, families of American hostages, and praised the Israeli Defense Forces for having the lowest civilian to combatant casualty ratio in the history of urban warfare.

“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 glorify death and those who sanctify life,” said Netanyahu. “America and Israel must stand together. Because when we stand together, something very simple happens: We win. They lose.”

The Prime Minister urged Congress to “fast track” military aid to Israel so they can “expedite an end” to the war in Gaza.

While Netanyahu thanked both the Biden and Trump administrations for past support, his address to Congress comes at a time of mixed signals and extreme political flux within the current administration. In May 2024, Biden paused some offensive arms shipments to Israel that could be pivotal in future Gaza operations to dismantle Hamas. Biden’s pause on weapons may very well be one of the motivations for Netanyahu’s trip to the U.S., his first diplomatic trip since October 7. The trip was planned weeks before the July 13 assassination attempt on President Donald Trump and Biden’s subsequent decision to withdraw from his campaign that left Kamala Harris the presumptive Democratic nominee for president.

Usually, the Vice President presides over joint sessions of Congress during speeches by visiting heads of state. However, Harris was notably absent from Netanyahu’s historic address opting to hit the campaign trail in Indiana to attend the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Grand Boule. Israeli officials called the break in protocol a “boycott” and “not a way to treat an ally.” More than 30 other members of Congress also did not attend the joint session. According to a White House statement, both Biden and Harris will meet Netanyahu separately July 25.

Despite the absences, the Prime Minister’s vision for the future of Gaza drew a standing ovation.

Netanyahu said, “The day after we defeat Hamas, a new Gaza could emerge. My vision for that day is of a demilitarized and deradicalized Gaza. Israel does not seek to resettle Gaza, but for the foreseeable future, we must retain overriding security control there to prevent the resurgence of terror, to ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel. Gaza should have a civilian administration run by Palestinians who do not seek to destroy Israel. That’s not too much to ask. It’s a fundamental thing that we have a right to demand and to receive. A new generation of Palestinians must no longer be taught to hate Jews, but rather to live in peace with us.”

Considering America still a “beacon of liberty,” Netanyahu expressed he was “hopeful” about Israel and America being “a force for light and good” together.

“Working together, I’m confident that our two nations will vanquish the tyrants and terrorists who threaten us both,” said Netanyahu. “We will fight until we achieve victory. Victory of liberty over tyranny, victory of life over death, victory of good over evil. That’s our solemn commitment.”

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, “The October 7 attack on Israel was barbaric and inexcusable. Israel has been the homeland of the Jewish people for nearly 4,000 years and Israel needs America’s full, unambiguous, and steadfast support.”