The debate follows mounting criticism of Netanyahu’s move to use the high profile address to criticize President Barack Obama’s policy on Iran. While a range of ideas are being discussed there is no final decision yet, the Israeli source stressed.
An official in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office insists “at this moment” the speech is still on, suggesting the Israelis were leaving themselves some wiggle room.
“In recent days the Prime Minister has received a number of inquiries about his visit to the US. At this moment there is no change to the plans,” this official told CNN.
House Speaker John Boehner invited Netanyahu last month to speak in the House chamber, but did not consult with the White House before officially reaching out to the Israeli leader.
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Polls
But there are signs the controversy is impacting Netanyahu’s standing in the polls, with the Israeli media and public voicing concern that Netanyahu is contributing to further strains between Israel and the United States, its closest ally.
An Israel Army Radio poll on Monday said only 34% of Israelis think Netanyahu should go ahead with the address, while 47% think he should cancel. Another poll published by the Times of Israel on Monday showed Netanyahu’s party four seats in the Knesset behind Herzog and Livni’s Zionist Camp alliance.
CNN’s Jim Acosta contributed to this report
