WATCH: Netanyahu, accused of war crimes by ICC, charges UN top court with ‘lies’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an outstanding arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over war crimes, accused the ICC of making “false accusations.”

“These lies are not only libelous, they're downright dangerous. The ICC is trying to shackle Israel's hands and prevent us from defending ourselves. And if Israel's hands are tied, America is next,” Netanyahu said in his address to a joint meeting of Congress.

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders, as well as for the leaders of Hamas, in May for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza and Israel.

Netanyahu said before Congress that his nation would not be “shackled” in its war in Gaza.

“Let me assure you, the hands of the Jewish state will never be shackled. Israel will always defend itself,” Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu’s appearance before Congress comes as the Israeli leader faces criticism both abroad and at home over Israel’s war in Gaza and the hostages who have not been rescued after being taken from Israel on Oct. 7.

More than 50 Democratic lawmakers as well as independent Sen. Bernie Sanders are boycotting Netanyahu’s speech. At least one Republican lawmaker is also boycotting. Democrats who support Israel have also spoken out against Netanyahu.

Thousands of protesters have gathered near the Capitol to demonstrate against the war, which has led to the death of more than 39,000 Palestinians and plunged the Gaza strip into a humanitarian crisis.

Netanyahu is due to meet with Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday, and with former President Donald Trump on Friday.

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