Benjamin Netanyahu

The Israeli prime minister has warned about the dangers of the Iranian nuclear program for two decades. He has shaped the debate, but will he influence the final outcome?

The Israeli premier's remarks are the culmination of a controversy that began in January when he was invited — without input from the White House — to make the speech.

The White House, which was not informed of the invitation, called it a departure from diplomatic protocol. House Speaker John Boehner said, "Congress can make this decision on its own."

A White House spokeswoman, said the U.S. wanted "to avoid the appearance of influencing a democratic election." Israel's election is March 17. Netanyahu is due to address Congress March 3.

The Israeli prime minister said his country has a "profound disagreement" with the White House on nuclear talks with Iran, and it is his duty to speak up on an issue that affects Israel's survival.

Secretary of State John Kerry questioned the Israeli leader's "judgment" on talks with Iran. Earlier, National Security Adviser Susan Rice said Netanyahu's address to Congress was hurting relations.

The Israeli leader will meet with Sens. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Harry Reid, D-Nev., after his March 3 speech. Also, two senior Obama administration officials will address the AIPAC conference.

But, the Israeli premier told AIPAC, reports of a decline in ties between the allies were "not only premature, they're just wrong." The remarks come amid tensions between the countries.

The bill, which must be approved by Parliament, defines Israel as "the nation-state of the Jewish people." It has angered not only Israel's Arab citizens, but also members of the coalition government.