Isaac Herzog’s address to U.S. Congress underscores ‘indestructible relationship’ in the face of American concerns

The ceremonial President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, addressed the United States Congress on Wednesday, reiterating the ‘indestructible relationship’ between the two nations, in the face of U.S. apprehension over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s contentious judicial reforms and ongoing West Bank settlement construction.

Herzog, succeeding his father Chaim Herzog, is the second Israeli President to make a speech to Congress, marking Israel’s 75th year.

However, Herzog’s visit also brings to light the challenge that Democrats face in reconciling their enduring support for Israel with their disapproval of some actions by the Netanyahu government, a coalition of ultranationalist and ultra-Orthodox parties.

On Tuesday, the House passed a resolution led by Republicans to reaffirm its backing for Israel, which received significant bipartisan support. This action is an indirect censure of a leading Democrat who labeled Israel as a ‘racist state’ over the weekend, but later apologized.

The resolution was presented by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, and received backing from over 400 lawmakers. Although it did not specifically name Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., it was clearly a response to her recent criticism of Israel and its treatment of Palestinians.

Jayapal, the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, retracted her comments the following day, stating they were intended for Netanyahu, not Israel.

The Republican-led initiative showcased the disagreement among House Democrats over Israel, with younger progressives taking a more critical position towards the long-standing U.S. ally.

Herzog, during his White House visit on Tuesday, reassured President Biden that despite U.S. concerns over Netanyahu’s plans to overhaul the judiciary, Israel’s commitment to democracy remains steadfast.

Opponents argue that Netanyahu’s proposed judicial reforms could lead to authoritarian rule, destroying Israel’s delicate checks and balances system, a claim that has concerned numerous American Jewish groups and Democratic lawmakers.

Herzog’s visit follows a large-scale Israeli operation in the West Bank, which has exacerbated the disagreements with the U.S.

Despite these disagreements, President Biden emphasized the strength of the U.S.-Israel relationship, describing it as ‘simply unbreakable.’ He confirmed America’s unwavering commitment to Israel, despite reservations over several of Netanyahu’s policies.

In anticipation of Herzog’s visit, Biden conversed with Netanyahu over the phone, extending an invitation for a U.S. meeting this autumn. This conversation, according to Herzog, sent a significant message to the region, affirming the ‘indestructible bond’ despite any existing disagreements.

The Biden administration has not confirmed whether Netanyahu will be hosted at the White House, an invitation typically extended to Israeli prime ministers. The delay in extending this invitation has stirred controversy in Israel, with critics citing it as a sign of worsening U.S.-Israel relations.

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More about Isaac Herzog’s Congressional Address

• Isaac Herzog
• US-Israel Relations
• West Bank Settlements
• Netanyahu’s Judicial Reforms
• Rep. Pramila Jayapal
• U.S. House of Representatives
• President Biden’s Stance on Israel