Knesset speaker says all lawmakers must attend Pence speech

Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein calls on all Israeli lawmakers to attend US Vice President Mike Pence’s plenum address on Thursday.

“The presence of all Knesset members in this meeting is extremely important,” Edelstein tells lawmakers.

“Those who are absent will damage the Knesset’s image, express contempt for Israel’s interests and, no less serious, will disappoint those who sent them to this house — the citizens of Israel.”

“On Thursday, they will be looking to see if we are honoring our role and fill the plenum or have to again witness the shameful images of the empty plenary,” Edelstein says.