Despite boycott efforts by Democrats to put pressure on Netanyahu by trying to make this speech partisan, Bibi says he fully intends to give the speech to criticize efforts that will allow Iran to become a nuclear power:
THE HILL – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday doubled down on his intention to speak to a joint session of Congress next month, despite criticism from Democrats who say they will boycott the event.
Netanyahu said he fully intended to make the speech and that he will use the moment to criticize negotiations the Obama administration is holding with Iran, which he argues are endangering Israel.
“A bad deal with Iran is forming in Munich that will endanger Israel’s existence,” Netanyahu said at an event for his Likud Party, according to The Associated Press. “Therefore, I am determined to go to Washington and present Israel’s position before the members of Congress and the American people.”
Netanyahu downplayed differences between the U.S. and Israel, arguing that there have “always been essential differences between Israel and the U.S.” and that “relations have remained sound.”
“This will be the case this time as well,” he said, according to Haaretz.
“This is not a political issue or a party issue, neither here nor there. This is an existential issue, and I approach it with the fullest responsibility.”
Two more Democrats on Monday said they would skip Netanyahu’s address, bringing the total number to 9. Vice President Biden is also not planning on attend and has blamed a scheduling conflict.
I’m betting the real reason Biden won’t be there is because Obama won’t allow it. It would look terrible for Biden to show up with Obama sulking in the White House. Also Barack hates Bibi so there’s also that.