US Vice-President Kamala Harris has called for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, emphasizing the need for a resolution to the humanitarian crisis and advocating for a two-state solution. Harris’s comments came following a significant meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.
Harris, who is anticipated to be the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election, struck a more critical tone than President Joe Biden. She conveyed her “serious concerns” about the high casualty rates in Gaza and highlighted that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the manner in which it conducts its military operations is crucial. “It is time for this war to end,” Harris stated after their discussions.
The Vice-President’s remarks underscore the growing international concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict, which has seen over 39,000 casualties in Gaza since it erupted on October 7, following a Hamas attack on southern Israel. The conflict has resulted in significant destruction and suffering, with widespread damage to infrastructure and civilian areas in Gaza.
In her meeting with Netanyahu, Harris underscored the need for the United States to play a role in facilitating peace negotiations and addressing the dire situation on the ground. She called for immediate efforts to secure a ceasefire, bring hostages back home, and provide much-needed relief to the Palestinian people.
The Vice-President’s intervention comes at a time of intense scrutiny on the Biden administration’s support for Israel. President Biden has faced criticism from some progressive factions within the Democratic Party, who argue that his administration’s support for Israel’s actions has contributed to the humanitarian crisis. Harris’s comments suggest a potential shift or diversification in the administration’s approach to the conflict, reflecting broader concerns within the party about balancing support for Israel with humanitarian considerations.
Earlier on Thursday, Netanyahu met with President Biden, who recently stepped down from his re-election campaign. During their discussions, the two leaders addressed various issues, including the urgent need for a hostage release deal, the potential for conflict spillover into neighboring Lebanon, and the ongoing threat posed by Iran. White House National Security Spokesman John Kirby noted that while there are “gaps” in the US-Israel relationship, it remains robust and functional.
Netanyahu’s visit to Washington followed a passionate speech he delivered to Congress, where he pledged “total victory” over Hamas. His address was met with significant protests from pro-Palestinian groups outside the Capitol.
In a related development, the families of American hostages held by Hamas also met with Biden and Netanyahu. Jonathan Dekel-Chen, whose son was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the conflict, described the meeting as “productive and honest,” expressing cautious optimism about the prospects for the hostages’ release.
Netanyahu is expected to meet with Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on Friday, further highlighting the ongoing political and diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict.
Harris’s call for peace and her focus on the humanitarian aspects of the crisis signal a more assertive stance on the issue, reflecting the increasing urgency for a resolution to the protracted and devastating conflict.
