Israel’s president addressed the U.S. Congress on Wednesday demonstrating what he called the "unbreakable bond" between Israel and the United States, despite U.S. concerns over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s judicial overhaul and settlement construction in the occupied West Bank.
Isaac Herzog becomes the second Israeli president, after his father, Chaim Herzog, to address Congress.
His speech marked modern Israel’s celebration of its 75th year.
Outlining a list of global challenges, Herzog said the United States and Israel's partnership are "the key to the future of our children."
Herzog’s visit comes weeks after Israeli forces carried out one of their most intensive operations in the occupied West Bank in two decades, with a two-day air and ground offensive in Jenin, a militant stronghold. Senior members of Netanyahu’s government have been pushing for increased construction and other measures to cement Israel’s control over the occupied West Bank in response to a more than yearlong wave of violence with the Palestinians.
"I am deeply mindful of the challenge which this moment presents to Israeli society," he said. "As a nation, we must find a way to talk to each other, no matter how long it takes."
U.S. officials have broadly supported Israel’s right to defend itself from militant attacks but have also urged restraint to minimize harm to civilians and have lobbied against additional settlements that would further diminish the chances of securing a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
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