Lawmakers Boycott Netanyahu's Congress Address

A significant number of U.S. lawmakers, approximately 70, including prominent Democrats such as Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, boycotted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress, citing moral objections to his government's actions in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Rep. Pramila Jayapal expressed her inability to attend while Palestinians suffer, reflecting a broader sentiment among boycotting members who criticized Netanyahu as a 'war criminal'. Protests erupted outside the Capitol during the speech, with demonstrators condemning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and calling for a ceasefire. Netanyahu's address itself was met with applause from attending lawmakers, who heard him emphasize U.S.-Israeli ties and criticize the protests. Meanwhile, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib protested inside the chamber, holding a sign labeling Netanyahu a war criminal, highlighting deep divisions within Congress regarding the issue. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) commended those who chose to boycott, aligning with the call for justice and human rights in Palestine.