Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, drawing applause and criticism with his remarks. Netanyahu, on a visit aimed at bolstering U.S.-Israel relations and garnering support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza, turned heads when he made a joke about pro-Hamas protestors.

Netanyahu targeted the protestors who have criticized his policies, particularly those demonstrating against the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “It’s amazing, absolutely amazing. Some of these protesters hold up signs proclaiming ‘Gays for Gaza.’ They might as well hold up signs saying ‘Chickens for KFC,'” he joked.

His comparison drew laughter from some members of Congress but also prompted visible outrage among others. “I have a message for these protesters. When the tyrants of Tehran, who hang gays from cranes and murder women for not covering their hair, are praising, promoting and funding you, you have officially become Iran’s useful idiots,” Netanyahu later said.

“Our enemies are your enemies. Our fight is your fight. And our victory will be your victory. Ladies and gentlemen, that victory is in sight. Israel’s defeat of Hamas will be a powerful blow to Iran’s axis of terror.”

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Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), known for her vocal criticism of Israeli policies, was present during the speech, holding up a sign that labeled Netanyahu a “war criminal.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, along with roughly 80 House Democrats and several Democratic senators, did not attend Netanyahu’s speech. Harris, the presumptive Democrat nominee for president, is scheduled to meet with the Israeli leader on Thursday.

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