Netanyahu Thanks U.S. for Support during "Crossroads of History" at AIPAC Conference
During a speech at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) annual policy conference in Washington D.C., Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his nation’s gratitude to the United States for its ongoing support, calling the current era "a crossroads of history." At the same time, he sharply rebuked protesters who have been criticizing U.S. policy towards Israel, describing them as "useful idiots."
Netanyahu’s address at the AIPAC conference took place amidst a backdrop of growing tensions between the two nations, particularly in regards to their differing views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Despite these divisions, the Israeli leader emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship, stating that "Israel’s ability to defend itself is only possible thanks to the unwavering support of our greatest ally, the United States of America."
The Prime Minister’s words come at a time when anti-BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) legislation has been making progress in the U.S. Congress, aimed at combating the growing international boycott of Israel. Netanyahu hailed the efforts as a "powerful response" to the "anti-Semitic and hateful" BDS movement, and stressed that "Israel will never be isolated."
In his attack on protesters, Netanyahu referenced various groups and individuals who have been expressing dissenting views on U.S. support for Israel. "Some say ‘we don’t like American policy towards Israel, therefore America is an enemy of ours.’ These people are useful idiots… They are the useful fools who are being manipulated by anti-Israel and anti-Semitic forces," the Israeli leader declared.
The AIPAC conference, which brings together thousands of pro-Israel activists from around the world, has been marked by increased calls for action against the BDS movement, and for greater U.S. involvement in peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Netanyahu’s address further underscored the strong alliance between Israel and the United States, as he noted that "the bond between our countries is unbreakable, and will forever be a cornerstone of peace, freedom, and prosperity in the Middle East."
Responding to Netanyahu’s remarks, anti-Israel activists and human rights groups condemned his characterization of protesters as "useful idiots." "Netanyahu’s language only serves to further divide and provoke, rather than engage in productive dialogue and conflict resolution," declared a spokesperson for the advocacy organization, Code Pink.
For its part, the Israeli government remained steadfast in its commitment to its existing policies, with Netanyahu reassuring the AIPAC gathering that "Israel will always stand firm and fight for its rights, its freedom, and its security."
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