In a surprising turn of events, President Biden has extended an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit the White House. This move comes after a series of heated debates within the Democratic Party over their stance on the U.S.-Israel alliance and Netanyahu’s proposed judicial overhaul plan. While some Democrats have been vocal in their criticism of Israel, accusing it of being a “racist state,” others have sought to maintain a strong relationship with one of America’s closest allies.
The details of the meeting are still being worked out, but it is expected to take place before the end of the year. John Kirby, the strategic communications director at the National Security Council, confirmed that both leaders had a phone conversation to discuss the upcoming meeting.
This comes as a surprise to many, considering Biden’s previous statement in March when he expressed his concerns about Netanyahu’s judicial plan and stated that he had no plans to meet with him in the near future.
Netanyahu’s proposed judicial overhaul plan has been a subject of controversy, with his critics arguing that it would lead to a more authoritarian state under his rule. However, the prime minister defended his plan, stating that it aimed to restore power to elected leaders that had been undermined by ambitious judges. Despite their differences, Netanyahu and Biden have been engaged in discussions to find common ground and reach a broad consensus.
The controversy within the Democratic Party escalated when Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, called Israel a “racist state.” While she later walked back her comments slightly, she still accused Netanyahu’s administration of racism. Her remarks have drawn criticism from fellow Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, who issued a joint statement clarifying that Israel is not a racist state.
President Biden’s meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to take place during his visit to Washington, D.C. Netanyahu has expressed his appreciation for Biden’s support, emphasizing their long-standing friendship and shared commitment to Israel’s security. The White House, in a statement released after the phone call between Biden and Netanyahu, reaffirmed the President’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and condemned recent acts of terror against Israeli citizens.
As the details of the meeting between Biden and Netanyahu continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Democratic Party will reconcile their differing views on the U.S.-Israel alliance.
The internal debates highlight the challenges faced by Democrats as they strive to balance their progressive base’s concerns with the need to maintain a strong relationship with a key ally.
Source Fox News