Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the US Congress amidst a war in Gaza that has resulted in the deaths of over 39,000 Palestinians. Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions, claiming to have killed 1,203 Palestinian fighters in Rafah with minimal civilian casualties. However, reports from the UN and independent sources contradict his claims, highlighting the civilian suffering and devastation in Gaza.
Netanyahu also asserted that Israel has provided aid to Gaza, but records show that the blockade and limited aid deliveries have caused famine in the region. The prime minister accused Iran of funding anti-Israel protests in the US without providing evidence to support his claim. Additionally, he defended Israel against accusations of targeting civilians, despite reports of widespread destruction and civilian casualties in Gaza.
Netanyahu stated that the war could end if Hamas surrenders, disarms, and returns all hostages, but his refusal to accept a ceasefire without the destruction of Hamas raises concerns about the ongoing conflict. Hamas has offered peace deals in the past, but Israel’s rejection raises doubts about the possibility of a lasting peace agreement.
The international community continues to monitor the situation in Gaza, urging for an end to the violence and a lasting ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties and destruction. Netanyahu’s speech has sparked debate and drawn attention to the complexities and challenges of the conflict in the region.
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