Netanyahu in the US to rally support against Iran and its allies

Written by Elijah J. Magnier

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be hosted by Congress and US President Joe Biden, who has announced his withdrawal from the presidential race. Netanyahu is expected to deliver a speech designed to win applause, to be seen and heard in Israeli society, and to demonstrate his ability to influence America and evade its directives when they are incompatible with Israel’s national interest. Netanyahu wanted to present himself as a leader worthy of remaining in power despite the failures of 7 October, for which he denies responsibility, but for which he still bears responsibility as commander of the armed and security forces. His meeting with Biden, while largely protocol, is significant because Biden remains in office for another six months – a particularly critical period for what lies ahead for Israel and the Middle East.

Netanyahu’s primary goal in his upcoming meetings and speech to Congress is to generate enthusiasm and secure full support, ensuring that America will back him if the current conflict escalates into a wider war. Netanyahu shows no sincere intention of agreeing to a ceasefire with Hamas, except under impossible conditions that the Palestinian resistance can’t accept.

Before leaving for Washington, Netanyahu announced that he had instructed the Israeli negotiating delegation to prepare for a meeting on Thursday with the Qatari-Egyptian-American negotiating delegations in order to revive the talks. This date coincides with the last day of the Knesset before its official recess until October, ensuring that there will be no political obstacle to his negotiating terms.