Tlaib and Bush Condemn Congress over Netanyahu Speech

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Michigan) has condemned Congress for inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a joint session, labeling him a "war criminal" amid ongoing violence in Gaza. Tlaib's remarks, made on Tuesday, assert that Netanyahu should face trial at the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes, rather than receiving the honor of speaking to Congress. She emphasized that the invitation symbolizes a troubling endorsement of actions she describes as genocide against the Palestinian people. The International Criminal Court has sought arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders, but the U.S. has historically rejected the ICC's jurisdiction regarding Israel. Tlaib criticized the U.S. for its military support of Israel, which she claims has facilitated the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians, including many children. She expressed dismay that her colleagues would participate in what she views as a celebration of ethnic cleansing. Several Democratic lawmakers, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have opted to boycott Netanyahu's speech, reflecting a growing dissent within the party regarding his leadership. Prominent figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) have also voiced concerns, marking this event as unprecedented in U.S. history, where a leader accused of war crimes is given a platform in Congress. As protests against U.S. support for Israel continue, activists plan to gather at the Capitol to demand accountability for Netanyahu's actions. The discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is evolving, with increasing calls for a one-state solution and a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy in the region.