Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used the beginning of a speech to a joint session of Congress to warn against viewing Iran’s opposition to the Islamic State as a reason to view them in a more positive light.
“The battle between Iran and [the Islamic State] doesn’t turn Iran into a friend,” he said. “Both want to impose a militant Islamic empire — they just disagree among themselves who will be the ruler of that.”
The Israeli leader was greeted with a warm reception in the House chamber, and was announced by House Speaker John Boehner with the same phrasing — “I have the high privilege and distinct honor … ” — used to introduce the president prior to State of the Union speeches.
In a deadly Game of Thrones, Netanyahu said, there is no place for the U.S. or Israel.
“So when it comes to Iran and [the Islamic State], the enemy of your enemy is your enemy,” he stated to wild applause and a standing ovation.
