Rep. Dean to boycott Netanyahu’s address to Congress citing ‘callous behavior’

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July 24th, 2024 | By Ryan Genova

Representative Madeiline Dean, whose office is in Glenside, appeared on CNN today to discuss her decision to boycott Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress on Wednesday,

Netanyahu’s address will intend to “to shore up American support for his war in Gaza and redirect the attention of a nation that has been preoccupied for weeks by a stream of domestic political issues,” CNN said.

Netanyahu, a 1967 graduate of Cheltenham High School, has reportedly accused the United States of “withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel,” claims which officials have rejected.

Senator Bernie Sanders said he will also skip the address in protest of the “total war” Netanyahu’s government has waged in Gaza.

“No. Netanyahu should not be welcomed into the United States Congress,” Sanders said in a statement. “On the contrary, his policies in Gaza and the West Bank and his refusal to support a two-state solution should be roundly condemned.”

President Biden is scheduled to meet with Netanyahu on Thursday, according to CNN. Former President Donald Trump and Netanyahu will meet Friday.

From Representative Dean’s announcement:

This week, I’ve met with Israeli hostage families, advocates for Palestinians, and constituents — hearing grief, pain, and a desire for peace.

I respect our institution, open dialogue, and collaboration with allies.

But a line must be drawn. I will not attend today’s address.

I will not be lectured by Mr. Netanyahu on morality and justice.

What I know to be moral, to be just:

-Hostages returned home
-Civilian life guarded
-Security for Israel, autonomy for Palestine

I will not be told differently by a man whose callous behavior cost innocent lives.

A clip from her CNN appearance can be watched below:

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Screengrab: CNN