US Democrats blast Netanyahu’s anti-Iran speech at Congress -
A group of top US Democrats have decried Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Congress address, characterizing the speech as “political theater.” Netanyahu delivered an anti-Iran speech at Congress on Tuesday to persuade American lawmakers to put more pressure on Tehran during nuclear negotiations, and to spread more Iranophobia.
However, remarks made by lawmakers following the speech showed that he failed to complete his mission.
At least 55 Democrats, including eight senators and 47 House members, boycotted Netanyahu’s address to protest his sharp criticism of President Barack Obama’s strategy in dealing with Iran.
They also attacked House Speaker John Boehner for inviting Netanyahu without consulting Obama.
Democratic Congressman Steve Cohen, who boycotted the address, described the Israeli leader’s speech as “political theater worthy of an Oscar.” “I believe the prime minister was successful in probably getting reelected,” Cohen said, referring to elections that will be held in Israel later this month. “I’m sure this will play well in Israel.” Sen. Dick Durbin criticized the Israeli leader for dismissing “the president's efforts.” “I think at some parts of his speech, he may have mischaracterized some of things that are being said,” he said.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said Netanyahu insulted the people in the United States by his speech. “I was near tears throughout the prime minister’s speech — saddened by the insult to the intelligence of the United States as part of the [negotiating] nations,” Pelosi said.
Following the speech on Tuesday, President Obama said there was “nothing new” in Netanyahu’s speech to a joint session of Congress. "I did have a chance to take a look at the transcript, and as far as I can tell, there was nothing new," Obama told reporters.
The US president added that “the prime minister didn't offer any viable alternatives