Nancy Pelosi Rips Netanyahu’s Speech After Boycotting It

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, labeling it the "worst" by any foreign leader. Pelosi had previously announced her intention to boycott the speech, reflecting the growing tensions between Netanyahu and the Democratic leadership.

Pelosi's condemnation was unequivocal. She expressed her disapproval not only of Netanyahu's address but also of the decision to invite him. According to Pelosi, Netanyahu’s speech was laden with criticisms of U.S. policies and was designed to serve his own political interests rather than foster constructive dialogue.

Benjamin Netanyahu’s presentation in the House Chamber today was by far the worst presentation of any foreign dignitary invited and honored with the privilege of addressing the Congress of the United States.

Many of us who love Israel spent time today listening to Israeli…

— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 24, 2024

She described his comments as divisive and unhelpful to the peace process, underscoring her long-standing disapproval of Netanyahu's approach to Israel's security and foreign relations​​.

The speech, delivered during a special joint session of Congress, was part of Netanyahu’s visit to the United States, which has been fraught with controversy. Pelosi, along with other Democratic leaders, argued that the invitation extended by the Republican House leadership bypassed the usual consultative processes. They believed it undermined the bipartisan support that has traditionally characterized U.S.-Israel relations​​.

Here's another reason not to vote for Harris. The selective boycott by the democrats enrages me. Bibi even lost Pelosi

It's plain and simple antisemitism at the rotten core of America.
This should have been like Zelensky's speech

And I'm the farthest from a Netanyahu supporter pic.twitter.com/ICjPimVaO5

— Idan (@IdanAvni_) July 24, 2024

During the address, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s stance on defending itself against threats, particularly from Iran. He stated that Israel would not hesitate to act alone if necessary, a point that resonated with his supporters but drew ire from critics like Pelosi. The former Speaker turned her back on Netanyahu during one of his standing ovations, a symbolic gesture that highlighted her disdain for his remarks.

Pelosi's boycott was not an isolated incident. Several Democratic lawmakers also chose to skip the speech, reflecting a broader discontent within the party regarding Netanyahu's policies and the current state of U.S.-Israel relations. This rift has been exacerbated by recent events, including the Biden administration's diplomatic struggles with Netanyahu's government and ongoing concerns about human rights in Gaza​.

Netanyahu’s address comes at a time of heightened tension in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts and diplomatic challenges. His speech, intended to bolster support among American lawmakers, instead highlighted the deep divisions over how best to support Israel and achieve peace in the region.

Pelosi’s strong response underscores the growing complexity of U.S.-Israel relations and the internal divisions within American politics regarding foreign policy in the Middle East. As the situation evolves, the interplay between U.S. political dynamics and Israeli strategies will continue to shape the discourse on Capitol Hill.