Iran is building nuclear capabilities, that pose a threat to the stability of the Middle East and beyond.” “Let there be no doubt: Iran does not strive to attain nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. “Perhaps the greatest challenge Israel and the United States face at this time together is the Iranian nuclear program,” he said. Herzog also spoke of diplomacy with Saudi Arabia and warned of the threat posed by Iran. “Today, at this moment in my people’s history, gathering on Capitol Hill to celebrate 75 years of Israeli independence with our greatest partner and friend, the United States of America, my soul is overflowing with pride and joy,” Herzog said – comments that prompted another standing ovation from members of Congress. Much of the speech from Herzog focused on the consequential relationship between the US and Israel. “Our bond may be challenged at times, but it is absolutely unbreakable.” “Israel and the United States will inevitably disagree on many matters, but we will always remain family,” he said. ![]() The Israeli president suggested that even with differences, the US-Israel relationship has an unshakeable bond. ![]() Although we are working through… issues, just like you, I know our democracy is strong and resilient. He went on to say, “As President of Israel, I am here to tell the American people, and each of you, that I have great confidence in Israeli democracy. Later, Herzog said, “I am well aware of the imperfections of Israeli democracy, and I am conscious of the questions posed by our greatest of friends.” Jayapal did not attend the address due to a scheduling conflict, two sources told CNN. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, Cori Bush of Missouri and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. Some of the prominent progressives who said they would not attend the speech include: Reps. Pramila Jayapal, the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, made comments over the weekend about Israel being a “racist” state, which she later sought to walk back. Questioning the Jewish people’s right to self-determination, is not legitimate diplomacy, it is antisemitism.” The remarks prompted a standing ovation with loud cheers and clapping.Īhead of the address, the House of Representatives voted Tuesday evening to pass a resolution affirming support for Israel with a bipartisan vote of 412 to 9, with nine Democrats voting against it. But criticism of Israel must not cross the line into negation of the State of Israel’s right to exist. “I respect criticism, especially from friends, although one does not always have to accept it. “I am not oblivious to criticism among friends, including some expressed by respected members of this House,” Herzog said. House progressives have been vocal about their opposition to Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the US sponsorship of Israel’s Iron Dome defense system. There is widespread support for Israel on both sides of the aisle in Congress and among congressional leadership, but some House progressive Democrats opted to skip the address, citing concerns about human rights. Israeli President Isaac Herzog affirmed the US-Israel relationship in an address to a joint meeting of Congress on Wednesday, calling America “our greatest partner and friend,” while also acknowledging criticism from some House progressives.
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