Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's party is responding to Senator Chuck Schumer's remarks criticizing Netanyahu's handling of the war and calling for new elections in Israel. Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in the U.S., cited Netanyahu, right-wing Israeli officials, Hamas, and the Palestinian Authority as obstacles to peace. However, Republican Whip Tom Emmer strongly disagreed with Schumer's comments, labeling them as 'disgusting' and accusing him of siding with anti-Semites.
Emmer emphasized that Hamas is the main obstacle to peace and called for its elimination. He defended Israel's efforts to avoid civilian casualties, attributing the high death toll in Gaza to Hamas using civilians as shields. Emmer criticized Democrats for not condemning Hamas and accused them of prioritizing Hamas over Israel.
Regarding funding for Israel, Emmer highlighted that the House had passed a supplemental bill in October, but Schumer had not acted on it. He criticized Democrats for voting against the bill and accused President Biden of threatening to veto it. Emmer stressed that the issue lies with Schumer and the Democrat majority in the Senate.
When asked about the House Republicans' plan, Emmer clarified that they had already passed a standalone Israel aid bill. He blamed Schumer for the bill's lack of progress in the Senate and reiterated that the House had taken necessary actions. Emmer emphasized that the survival of Israel is at stake and accused Democrats of playing politics with the issue.
Emmer concluded by stating that the House had done its part and urged Schumer to act on the bill. He reiterated that House Republicans would continue to lead on the issue and emphasized the importance of supporting Israel's security.
