Netanyahu's Congressional Address to be Skipped by Rep. Ro Khanna in Planned Absence from Event

June 18 :
Ro Khanna, an Indian American Democrat, has stated his intention not to attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's much-anticipated speech before Congress. Khanna cites Netanyahu's stance on the ongoing U.S.-funded military offensive in Gaza and his rejection of attempts to prioritise a ceasefire deal as reasons for his refusal. Khanna stated, I will not attend, I previously stated that I would have no problem inviting him to address Congress on the topic of ending the war and freeing hostages; however, I am not going to tolerate a monologue, he continued.

Along with other Democrats, Khanna has decided not to attend Netanyahu's speech. This includes Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.). Clyburn recently shared similar views in an appearance with NewsNation's "The Hill Sunday," saying he would "treat [Netanyahu] the same way he treated Barack Obama."

As Representative Clyburn says, I concur. Khanna stated, "He should not expect reciprocity" due to his treatment of President Obama. The significance of remaining respectful throughout Netanyahu's speech, he stressed. Having said that, I believe it ought to be courteous, and we won't let this matter escalate. It's clear he's speaking to members of Congress, therefore he should act appropriately.

The rift between Netanyahu and Obama began in 2015, when Netanyahu spoke before Congress and criticised Obama's position on Palestinian statehood and nuclear negotiations with Iran. Then-Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) planned the speech without informing the White House, and over fifty Democrats chose not to attend. A rising tide of Democratic MPs have decided to skip Netanyahu's speech, pointing to the contentious historical backdrop and current conflicts—specifically, the war in Gaza against the militant group Hamas—as reasons for their position.