Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made history by delivering his fourth address to Congress, surpassing British Prime Minister Winston Churchill's record of three appearances. Netanyahu's longstanding admiration for Churchill was evident during his previous speeches, with then-House Speaker John Boehner even presenting him with a bust of the iconic leader in 2015.
Netanyahu's latest speech solidifies his position as the foreign leader with the most appearances before Congress. Known for his strong leadership in Israel, Netanyahu has drawn parallels between himself and Churchill, particularly in times of crisis.
One notable instance was when Netanyahu compared the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against him to issuing warrants for historical figures like FDR, Churchill, and even Hitler. This bold statement reflects Netanyahu's unwavering stance on defending Israel's interests.
Furthermore, Netanyahu's affinity for Churchill extends beyond rhetoric, as evidenced by a 2014 photo showing a book on Churchill's views on Zionism and Israel prominently displayed on a bookshelf during a meeting with then-US Secretary of State John Kerry. The book, titled 'Churchill's Promised Land' by Michael Makovsky, underscores Netanyahu's deep respect for Churchill's legacy.
As Israel's longest-serving leader, Netanyahu's frequent engagements with Congress highlight the strong bond between Israel and the United States. His record-breaking fourth address not only cements his place in history but also underscores the enduring influence of leaders like Churchill on global politics.
