Washington: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday lashed out at anti-Israeli protesters demonstrating outside the US Congress against the Gaza war and his arrival to the United States, calling them Iran's "useful idiots". In a fiery speech, Netanyahu defended Israel's approach to the war and sought American support as thousands of defenders converged into the Capitol building.
“For all we know, Iran is funding the anti-Israel protests that are going on right now outside this building - not that many, but they’re there - and throughout the city. Well, I have a message for these protesters: When the Tyrants of Tehran, who hang gays from cranes and murder women for not covering their hair, are praising, promoting and funding you, you have officially become Iran’s useful idiots,” Netanyahu said.
These protesters that stand with them, they should be ashamed of themselves," he said as his speech assumed a darker tone. His arrival came at a crucial time for the war as US officials said they were close to a ceasefire deal that could free Hamas-held hostages in Gaza. US lawmakers are divided over the war, with more than 50 Democrats and political independent Bernie Sanders boycotting Netanyahu's speech.
Intense protests against Netanyahu
Protesters demanding the US stop military aid to Israel hoisted Palestinian flags and burnt American ones outside Washington's Union Station in demonstrations against Netanyahu's visit. Less than a mile away, police used pepper spray on some of the thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters who gathered outside the US Capitol. Demonstrators placed nearly 30 human-size cardboard coffins wrapped in Palestinian flags. Traffic was barred from several roads near the Capitol.
Commentaires