Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer delivered a potent critique of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, calling for new elections in Israel and asserting that Netanyahu has “lost his way.” As the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the United States and a historically steadfast supporter of Israel, Schumer’s remarks signify a dramatic shift in the political discourse surrounding U.S.-Israel relations.
On the Senate floor, Schumer lamented the “civilian toll in Gaza,” condemning Netanyahu for tolerating excessive civilian casualties in efforts to ensure his political survival, and cautioning that “Israel cannot survive if it becomes a pariah.” Schumer, representing a significant voice in the Democratic Party, expressed a vision for Israel that prioritizes peace and adherence to Jewish values that cherish every human life.
Schumer’s speech also pointed to other substantial obstacles to peace in the region, including Hamas, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, and right-wing elements within Israel’s government. Notably, Schumer targeted Israeli Cabinet members Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, whom he accused of exacerbating tensions and violence with their policies and actions.
The call for new elections by Schumer is particularly weighty given his standing in the American Jewish community and his historical advocacy for Israel. Schumer stressed the need for a two-state solution as the only sustainable path to peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians, which he sees as presently thwarted by Netanyahu’s coalition and its strategies.
Likud, Netanyahu’s political party, issued a statement urging Schumer to respect Israel as “an independent and proud democracy that elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.” They defended Israeli public opinion as being in favor of a definitive victory over Hamas and against the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza.
The Senate Majority Leader’s remarks also sparked swift responses from Republicans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell criticized Schumer for what he saw as inappropriate interference in the democracy of an ally. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed McConnell’s sentiment, calling Schumer’s intervention “highly inappropriate” and wrong while suggesting that it was vital to stand with Israel amidst conflict.
Schumer stood firm in his speech, emphasizing his unique responsibility as “Shomer Yisroel” — a guardian of the People of Israel — to speak and act on these issues. While acknowledging the severe threats Israel has faced throughout its existence, Schumer advocated for Israelis to be given a choice in their leadership and direction, highlighting the urgent necessity for a new electoral process.
Relevant articles:
– Wow, Netanyahu Has Lost the Support Of Senator Chuck Schumer | Considering the source, Schumer’s Senate floor speech was basically thunder on the mountaintop.
– Full text of Senator Chuck Schumer’s speech: ‘Israeli elections are the only way’, The Times of Israel, Thu, 14 Mar 2024 22:00:00 GMT
– Top Democrat Schumer calls for new elections in Israel, saying Netanyahu is an obstacle to peace, The Associated Press, Thu, 14 Mar 2024 23:36:00 GMT
– Schumer calls for new election in Israel and sharply criticizes Netanyahu, CNN, Thu, 14 Mar 2024 18:42:00 GMT