Several Massachusetts legislators have announced that they will be boycotting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress, scheduled for March 3rd. Among those boycotting are Senator Elizabeth Warren, Congressman Jim McGovern, and Congressman Seth Moulton.
The decision to boycott the speech comes after controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s invitation by House Speaker John Boehner, without consulting the White House. Many Democrats have criticized the move as a breach of protocol, as traditionally invitations to foreign leaders are coordinated with the president.
In a statement released by Senator Warren, she expressed her disappointment in how the invitation was extended to Netanyahu and emphasized the need for a strong relationship between the United States and Israel, based on mutual respect and trust. Congressman McGovern echoed these sentiments, stating that he believes the speech is a political ploy that will harm diplomatic relations.
On the other hand, Congressman Moulton defended his decision to boycott the speech by highlighting his support for Israel and his concern that the controversy surrounding the speech will distract from important issues facing Congress.
The announcement of the boycott by these Massachusetts legislators adds to the growing list of Democrats who have decided to skip Netanyahu’s speech. Some have cited scheduling conflicts, while others have expressed their opposition to the way the speech was arranged.
The boycott by these legislators highlights the division within Congress over Netanyahu’s speech and raises questions about the impact it will have on US-Israel relations. With just a few days until the speech, the controversy shows no signs of abating.
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