Scoop: House GOP weighs inviting Netanyahu to address Congress

• Netanyahu is slated to address the Senate Republican lunch on Wednesday virtually.

What we're hearing: The idea was discussed at a closed-door Republican Conference meeting on Wednesday morning, according to multiple sources in the room.

• "It was suggested by several folks" to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), one House Republican said.
• Rep. John Duarte (R-Calif.), who also confirmed the discussion, said there is "strong support to show respect for Israel's sovereignty."

Zoom in: Other ways to support Israel and Netanyahu, as well as messaging to combat Schumer's remarks, were also discussed in the meeting.

• One idea raised was bringing in members of the Israeli Knesset to meet with the conference, according to a House Republican.

Flashback: Republicans stirred controversy in 2015 by inviting Netanyahu to speak to Congress before informing the Obama administration of the plans.

• The speech, in which Netanyahu railed against Obama's nuclear deal with Iran, angered Democratic lawmakers at the time.

• Then-Vice President Joe Biden, notably, did not attend the 2015 speech.

The other side: Staunchly pro-Israel Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) told Axios he would likely attend a Netanyahu speech, noting he attended the 2015 one, but said it "should not be used as a wedge" with Democrats.

• "I hope that leadership in Israel understands that the relationship is only strengthened by making sure that both sides of the aisle support Israel," he said.

Editor's note: This story was updated with additional reporting and context.