Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation extended a warm welcome to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he took to the chamber floor on Wednesday.
None of the other candidates were present, which looks like a form of protest. Vice President Kamala Harris also opted to campaign in Indiana instead, in pursuit of the party’s presidential nomination.
Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa. pointed out that condemning Russian President Putin for war crimes seems to be the norm, but when it comes to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, excuses and bombs are given instead.
The left wing of the Democratic Party, including Lee, has expressed their opposition to Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Lee’s comments and decision to not attend the prime minister’s address during a joint session of Congress are a reflection of this sentiment.
On X, Rep. Madeleine Dean, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, revealed on Twitter that she had spoken to the families of Israeli hostages and Palestinian advocates. She expressed that she heard their anguish, suffering, and longing for peace during the meetings.
She stated, “Mr. Netanyahu cannot lecture me on morality and justice.”
As the lawmakers gathered, they praised Netanyahu as a resilient and patriotic leader who fearlessly attacks Iran-supported terrorist organizations that spread violence throughout the Middle East.
Representative Scott Perry, a Republican from Pennsylvania, expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying he embodies the true spirit of fighting for his country, its citizens, and their way of life. In a tweet, he expressed his honor to be in the same vicinity as him and wished him strength. Perry’s words exemplify the deep respect and gratitude many have for Netanyahu’s unwavering commitment to Israel.
During his address to lawmakers, Netanyahu provided a thorough account of the events of October 7th, when approximately 3,000 Hamas militants infiltrated Israel and mercilessly killed 1,200 individuals from 41 different countries, including 39 American citizens.
Israel has been launching missile strikes in Gaza for several months to dismantle the extensive network of underground tunnels used by the terror group to transport weapons and supplies, as well as to gain entry into Israel. The recent attack on Israel has prompted a strong retaliatory response from the country.
Progressives have criticized the killing of thousands of Palestinian civilians due to bombs and crossfire, resulting in a series of protests throughout the nation.
Critics have pointed fingers at Netanyahu for not doing enough to safeguard civilians, and are urging for a ceasefire to be implemented.
The internet went abuzz when Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., chose to sport a suit instead of his usual attire of athletic shorts and hoodie during the prime minister’s speech. Fetterman is known for his unconventional fashion choices, but this time he decided to switch it up, causing a stir on social media.
The senator’s pro-Israel stance has distinguished him from the left wing of the party. In June, he visited the country and had a direct meeting with Netanyahu. On his return, Fetterman expressed his belief that Congress should also target Hamas’s finances.
He stated that the Israel-Hamas conflict is fueled by illicit finance. It is now more apparent than ever that there is a chance for us to assist Israel in winning this war through various means, not just by providing military and financial aid, but also by reinforcing the current regulatory measures.
“We need to take more action to combat terror financing, whether it’s through providing adequate funding and resources to the Treasury Department or improving the enforcement of current sanctions,” expressed the speaker.
The position of Harris in the widening divide between moderate and progressive Democrats remains uncertain.
According to Rep. Dan Meuser, D-Pa., her absence on Wednesday speaks volumes.
According to him, Vice President Harris’ decision to boycott Prime Minister Netanyahu’s speech to Congress today is a significant insult to our most important ally in the Middle East. He believes that it is a self-centered and politically driven move aimed at gaining support from the woke left. In doing so, she is prioritizing her campaign’s needs over what is best for American diplomacy.
