McCarthy: I Will Invite Netanyahu to Washington if Biden Does Not

U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy indicated that if "President Joe Biden does not invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House soon, I will invite him to meet Congress." In an interview with Israel Hayom, after his arrival in Israel, McCarthy spoke about Biden's ongoing refusal to welcome Netanyahu in Washington amid disputes over the government's planned judicial reforms. He confirmed that Netanyahu is "a dear friend as the Prime Minister of a country with which we share the closest ties," considering that "Biden has waited 'too long' and should invite him soon." McCarthy joked that "the U.S. president has not spoken with him in recent months, so Netanyahu might be in good company if he treats me the same way." White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirmed on Monday that the Biden administration is aware of McCarthy's statements but that no visit for Netanyahu has yet been scheduled. Kirby stated, "Israeli leaders have a long tradition of visiting Washington. President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu have known each other for a very long time. I expect a visit from the Prime Minister (of Israel) at some point."