The United States is Israel’s “greatest partner and friend,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog told Congress on Wednesday. However, his speech comes amid growing concern over a judicial reform plan being proposed by the leader of Israel’s ruling coalition, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During his speech, Herzog indirectly addressed Netanyahu’s judicial reform plan, which has sparked large-scale protests in Israel. “The momentous debate in Israel is painful and deeply unnerving,” he said, adding that he had great “confidence in Israeli democracy.” “Although we are working through sour issues, just like you. I know our democracy is strong and resilient.” Herzog is only the second Israeli president, after his father, Chaim Herzog, to address Congress in a speech. He was invited to Washington to mark the 75th anniversary of Israel’s founding.
Israel’s president Herzog addresses US concerns on judicial reform | DW News
