Netanyahu relies on clash of civilization thesis to defend his genocide in Palestine

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used a decades-old theory known as the “clash of civilizations” during his address to Congress, justifying Israel’s war on Gaza as  a “clash between barbarism and civilization.”

Saying he came to thank the United States on behalf of Israel, he asked for more arms for the ongoing war, which has killed close to 40,000 Palestinians, including thousands of children and women.

One estimate recently published in the British medical journal The Lancet by three experts projected that the number was as high as 186,000. 

He also made an unsubstantiated claim that Iran is paying Americans to protest Israel. 

As well, Netanyahu attacked the International Criminal Court saying the court is trying to shackle Israel’s hands.

In response to repeated applause and standing ovations, Netanyahu told his audience, “Don’t applaud, listen.”

Some 70 Democrats boycotted Netanyahu speech, with Rep. Rashida Tlaib protesting during address with a placard saying “guilty of genocide.”

Others who boycotted included Senators Bernie Sanders, Dick Durbin and Elizabeth Warren.

Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer did attend Netanyahu’s address but left without shaking hands with the Israeli leader.

Vice President Kamala Harris did not preside over Netanyahu’s address.

The only Republican who did not attend was Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky, calling it political theater. 

US Capitol Police said five people were arrested for disrupting Netanyahu’s address. 

All were removed from the gallery.

Family members of Israelis held in Gaza were also present wearing yellow t-shirts that said “Seal the Deal Now”.