CRI听力:Netanyahu Visits US amid Tensions over Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on his way to Washington to deliver a controversial speech to the US Congress.

Netanyahu is due to speak to US lawmakers on Tuesday, where he's expected to take a hardline stand on Iran's nuclear program.

"I am departing to Washington on a crucial and even historic mission. I feel a deep and sincere concern for the safety of all citizens of Israel and the fate of the state and the fate of our people. I will do everything in my power to secure our future."

He's been invited to address Congress by the new Republican leadership.

The Republicans have invited him without consulting the White House, which is not only a breach of protocol, but has also angered the Obama administration with its timing, given the current negotiations with Iran over its nuclear issue.

US Secretary of State John Kerry.

"We don't want to see this turned into some great political football. Obviously it was odd, if not unique, that we learned of it (Netanyahu plan to speak to Congress) from the Speaker of the House and that the administration was not included in this process. But the administration is not seeking to politicise this. We want to recognise the main goal here, is to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, and on that Israel and the United States agree."

Netanyahu's address before the US Congress comes just two weeks before a parliamentary election in Israel.