Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former President Donald Trump are scheduled to meet on Friday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, following Netanyahu’s meetings with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Netanyahu has been working to secure these meetings and the accompanying photo opportunities, especially as the November election approaches. These meetings come amidst Netanyahu’s address to Congress and as he navigates challenges at home, including the ongoing war and protests calling for a deal to free hostages held by Hamas.
Netanyahu’s meetings with both President Biden and the two leading candidates for the upcoming election are crucial for Israel. However, tensions have been high with both party leaders, especially in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The upcoming address to Congress has also faced opposition from leading Democrats who have chosen not to attend the session.
While Netanyahu faces criticism and challenges, he also has supporters, such as Rep. Jerry Nadler who, despite his criticisms, will attend the address due to his support for Israel. However, Nadler did not hold back in his condemnation of Netanyahu’s leadership, likening him to a historical failure in Jewish history.
Despite the political tensions and protests surrounding Netanyahu’s visit, Vice President Kamala Harris will not be present at the joint meeting due to a prior campaign event. However, her office has stated that her absence is not a political statement and that she will continue to push for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in the ongoing conflict.
Protests from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups are expected in Washington during Netanyahu’s visit. Calls to suspend military aid to Israel from major unions have added to the political pressure on Netanyahu. Additionally, families of hostages held by Hamas are urging Netanyahu to take the deal on the table for a ceasefire and hostage release.
The upcoming meetings and address to Congress are crucial for Netanyahu, but the pressure from various groups and political figures, including congressional Republicans, is mounting. Netanyahu’s ability to navigate these challenges and reach a resolution in the ongoing conflict will be closely watched.