McCollum Statement on Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Joint Address to Congress

Mr. Speaker, I rise to voice my opposition to the speech given in this chamber by Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. The speech given by the Prime Minister was outrageous. He disrespected his role as a foreign leader speaking before a joint session of Congress. He used the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to make blatantly political attacks on American citizens who disagree with his policies. He also made a full endorsement of former President Trump. One wonders if the Prime Minister’s attacks were an attempt to salvage his own political survival in Israel by making it appear that he has the full support of the American people, which he does not.    

This was a disturbing day for many Americans and a tragic day for Israelis and Palestinians who are desperately looking for leadership – not political grandstanding. What the American people want, and what Prime Minister Netanyahu failed to deliver, was a clear plan to end the violence and bring about a lasting two state solution in the region.

Thank you, and I yield back.