A Democrat and longtime supporter of Israel, Schumer told the US Senate that Netanyahu's administration was "no longer responsive to Israel's needs" five months after the conflict erupted in Gaza.
"Israel has the right to choose its own leaders. It is important that the people of Israel have the right to choose. There needs to be a new debate about the future of Israel after October 7," Schumer said. "In my opinion, that is best done by holding an election."
Chuck Schumer speaks at the US Senate's weekly press conference on March 12. Photo: Reuters
Asked whether Washington believed Israel should hold elections after the conflict, White House national security spokesman John Kirby replied: "That's up to the people of Israel."
According to Mr. Schumer, Israel would be making a serious mistake if it rejected the two-state solution. He also called on negotiators to do everything possible to secure a ceasefire, release hostages and bring humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Netanyahu's Likud party said that Netanyahu's policies enjoy broad public support. "Contrary to Schumer's words, the Israeli public supports a complete victory over Hamas, rejects any demands for a Palestinian state and opposes the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza," the Likud party said.
Earlier, Mr. Schumer and other top Democrats, including President Joe Biden, faced fierce criticism over Washington's unconditional support for Israel, which has carried out deadly attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
In addition to his criticism of the Israeli Prime Minister, Mr. Schumer also criticized Palestinians who support Hamas.
Ngoc Anh (according to Reuters)
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