Netanyahu's Speech To Congress; Project 2025: Untangling Fact From Fiction with Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts
Jul 25, 2024
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Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts discusses Netanyahu's speech to Congress, US policy with Israel, Ukraine, and China, and debates on intelligence services. They also cover Rashida Tlaib's actions, Abraham Accords, and intense security in DC during foreign leaders' visits.
Netanyahu's speech highlighted bipartisan US support for Israel.
Tension over US support for Israel evident with Rashida Tlaib's protest at the event.
Differing Republican and Democratic support for Israel influenced by lobbyists and alliances.
Deep dives
Netanyahu's Address to Congress
Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress in Washington, D.C., receiving applause from both Republican and Democratic members. His speech emphasized the strong support from the United States, praising both President Biden and former President Trump for their backing of Israel.
Rashida Tlaib and Netanyahu's Speech
Rashida Tlaib attended Netanyahu's speech and held up a sign accusing him of genocide. Her presence at the event, given her Palestinian background, highlighted the tension surrounding U.S. support for Israel in the context of the ongoing conflict.
Abraham Accords and Project 2025
The Abraham Accords, lauded by Netanyahu, aimed to bypass Palestinian input in favor of deals with Gulf states. Project 2025 endorses a similar approach, suggesting Saudi Arabia should join the accords. The vision for a Palestinian state under the Abraham Accords was criticized for its impracticality by Palestinian civil society.
Security Measures During Netanyahu's Speech
Security measures in Washington, D.C., for Netanyahu's speech were intense, resembling a fortified fortress. The heightened security was notable, considering the routine nature of foreign leaders addressing Congress. The crackdown was aimed at ensuring a smooth and secure visit for Netanyahu.
Excessive Policing Presence in D.C.
Law enforcement in Washington D.C. exhibited an overwhelming show of force in response to potential security threats, including a Hamas attack or Iranian involvement. The city was heavily guarded by multiple police forces with militarized attire, gas masks, and less lethal weapons. The excessive policing measures, in contrast to the peaceful nature of the protest being policed, highlighted the extensive preparations following prior security breaches like the January 6 riot.
Political Dynamics Around Support for Israel
The podcast discussion delved into the differing nature of Republican and Democratic support for Israel within the U.S. Congress. Republicans showed fervent backing for Israel, with notable enthusiasm during speeches emphasizing support. In contrast, Democrats appeared more tepid, possibly due to attempts to distance themselves from specific Israeli figures like Netanyahu. The influence of Christian Zionists and Israel lobby groups, notably AIPAC, on shaping political allegiances and alliances was also underscored, reflecting evolving bipartisan views on Israel within Congress.