Israeli President Isaac Herzog recently addressed a joint session of Congress on July 19, emphasizing the strong alliance between the U.S. and Israel, addressing the Iranian threat, and reaffirming the independence of Israel’s judiciary amidst ongoing controversy. Speaking to a full House chamber, Herzog expressed gratitude for the support the United States has given to Israel.
Herzog highlighted Iran as the greatest threat to Israel, stating that the Iranian regime’s nuclear program is not peaceful and has contributed to the spread of hatred, terror, and suffering in the Middle East and beyond. He also mentioned the peace Israel has achieved with Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco, expressing hope that Saudi Arabia would join these efforts in the future. Herzog also expressed a desire for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, but stressed that true peace cannot be based on violence.
The address took place days after Rep. Pramila Jayapal referred to Israel as a “racist state.” She later clarified her statement, stating that she believes the government led by Benjamin Netanyahu is engaging in discriminatory and racist policies. House Democrat leadership, including Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, Pete Aguilar, and Ted Lieu, defended Israel, stating that it is not a racist state. They reiterated the special relationship between the U.S. and Israel and expressed support for a two-state solution.
Forty-three House Democrats, including nine from the Congressional Progressive Caucus, signed a statement condemning Jayapal’s comments and reaffirming Israel as a vibrant, progressive, and inclusive democracy in the region. They emphasized the importance of Israel to the fight against terror and stressed the commitment to the historic U.S.-Israel relationship.
In his speech, Herzog indirectly referenced the controversy surrounding Jayapal’s comments, stating that there is a distinction between criticizing Israel and denying its right to exist, which he considered antisemitism. He condemned all forms of antisemitism and emphasized that it is unacceptable to question the Jewish people’s right to self-determination.
Herzog’s speech took place amid efforts by Benjamin Netanyahu to change Israel’s judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court. Herzog repeatedly emphasized the importance of the independence of Israel’s judicial system, in opposition to these efforts. The House also passed a resolution affirming support for Israel and denouncing antisemitism on July 18.