Johnson Warns of Arrests for Netanyahu Speech Interruptions

House Speaker Mike Johnson has issued a stern warning ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress on Wednesday, stating that any disruptions will result in arrests. In a letter to lawmakers, Johnson underscored the importance of maintaining congressional decorum and outlined a "zero-tolerance" policy for disturbances from guests.

"If any disturbance does occur, the Sergeant at Arms and Capitol Police will remove the offending visitor(s) from the gallery and subject them to arrest," Johnson wrote. He also noted that any lawmakers causing disruptions would be asked to cease by the Sergeant at Arms.

Protestors are planning demonstrations outside the Capitol during Netanyahu’s visit, including a significant march demanding the Israeli prime minister’s arrest. This heightened tension comes as hundreds of anti-Israel protesters gathered inside the Capitol's Cannon building on Tuesday, leading to staff and interns barricading themselves in their offices. Several demonstrators were arrested.

Vice President Kamala Harris, now the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, will not preside over Netanyahu’s speech. Instead, she will attend an event for the historically-black Zeta Phi Beta sorority. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin will preside over the joint session in her place. Speaker Johnson criticized Harris’s decision, labeling her absence as "inexcusable" and accusing her of "abandoning her seat."

This situation echoes Netanyahu's 2015 address to Congress on Iran, which saw nearly 60 Democrats boycotting. The current conflict in Gaza is expected to lead to similar actions, with more lawmakers potentially skipping the speech.

To ensure order, Johnson has announced an increased police presence around the Capitol complex and the House Chamber. Netanyahu is scheduled to speak at 2:00 p.m. EST, amid a backdrop of significant security measures and political tension.

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