Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress, emphasizing shared interests and threats from Iran and Hamas, and called for increased U.S. aid to Israel. His speech received mixed reactions, with applause from Republicans and criticism from many Democrats, several of whom boycotted the address over concerns about Israel's actions in Gaza. Netanyahu praised former President Trump for his past support and thanked President Biden for efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Concurrently, the Biden administration is working on a ceasefire and hostage release deal, aiming to resolve remaining gaps in negotiations. Protests outside the Capitol and mixed reactions from Jewish and Arab leaders in the U.S. reflect ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the conflict and U.S. involvement in the Middle East.