26/07/2024

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu outlines vague plan for post-War Gaza, seeks stronger US alliance amid protests

WASHINGTON, D.C. — During his speech to the United States Congress in Washington, D.C., Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sketched a vague outline of a plan for a ‘deradicalized’ post-war Gaza and touted a potential future alliance between Israel and US Arab allies.

While Democrats boycotted his remarks and pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated nearby, Netanyahu dismissed criticism of the Israeli military campaign that has devastated the Gaza Strip. According to Gaza health officials and international observers, more than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed.

“Anti-Israel protesters stand with Hamas and should be ashamed of themselves,” Netanyahu stated.

He attributed reports of hunger in Gaza to Hamas, asserting that Israel was protecting civilians there.

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel was intensely engaged in efforts to free the remaining hostages held by Hamas.

The Prime Minister also sought to bolster US support for Israel, especially in terms of weapons supplies, amid growing international criticism after more than nine months of conflict.