Netanyahu Says He Won't Ditch Congress

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is determined to continue with plans for an upcoming speech to Congress, despite criticism he has received both at home and abroad. Netanyahu is scheduled to address a joint meeting of Congress on March 3, after receiving an invitation from House Speaker John Boehner. Speaking on Monday, he said it is his duty to prevent Iran's nuclear program from moving forward and called it "an existential issue." Israeli officials previously said Netanyahu may speak in a closed-door session or at the annual AIPAC conference as an alternative. The White House has criticized the visit, and Vice President Joe Biden said he would not attend the speech.