In a highly contentious and politically charged atmosphere, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the U.S. Congress on July 24. However, unlike his last speech, which saw nearly 60 Democrats boycotting the event, the number of absences is expected to be far greater this time around.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has left Congressional Democrats torn between their long-standing support for Israel and their concerns over the way Israel has conducted military operations. The Health Ministry in the Hamas-run territory reports that over 37,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the war triggered by a Hamas attack on October 7. The figures provided by the ministry do not differentiate between civilians and combatants.

While several Democrats have expressed their intentions to attend the speech out of respect for Israel, a growing faction within the party wants no part in the event. This divide has created an extraordinarily charged atmosphere, disrupting the usual ceremonial, bipartisan show of support for a key American ally.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., voiced her disappointment with Netanyahu's stance, emphasizing the need to help Israel rather than hinder its progress. Pelosi urged the Israeli Prime Minister to act like a statesman and do what is right for his country.

Tensions between Netanyahu and Democratic President Joe Biden have also been escalating in public. Netanyahu has accused the Biden administration of withholding U.S. weapons from Israel, a claim that the White House has vehemently denied. The two leaders have not yet scheduled a meeting during Netanyahu's visit to Washington.

The invitation for Netanyahu to address Congress came from House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., following consultation with the White House. However, Democratic leaders have criticized the decision, considering it a mistake to extend the invitation once again, particularly in light of previous controversies surrounding Netanyahu's presence in Congress.

This time, the invitation originated after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish official in the U.S., gave a scathing speech on the Senate floor, labeling Netanyahu an "obstacle to peace" and calling for new elections in Israel. Republicans strongly condemned Schumer's speech, viewing it as an affront to Israel's sovereignty.

As the date of Netanyahu's speech approaches, Congressional Democrats grapple with whether attending would align with their values and concerns. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who attended Netanyahu's previous speech in 2015, sees no reason for Congress to provide a "political lifeline" to the Israeli Prime Minister.

The ongoing debate and division within the Democratic Party over Netanyahu's address highlight the complex dynamics of U.S. support for Israel, specifically against the backdrop of the current conflict in Gaza.