Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris vowed not to remain silent on the ongoing suffering in Gaza.
“Israel has the right to defend itself and it depends on how it does it. What has happened in Gaza over the past nine months is devastating,” Harris said, stressing the human toll of the conflict. We cannot turn our eyes away in the face of these tragedies.
Harris’s remarks clarified her stance on the conflict and underscored her determination to balance support for Israel with the urgent need to address humanitarian issues in Gaza. She echoed President Biden’s stance on America’s “ironclad support” and “unwavering commitment” to Israel, but emphasized the importance of ending the war.
Palestinian people are able to exercise their right to freedom, dignity and self-determination. Harris said.
She recalled the details of the proposed U.S.-backed truce and hostages, referring to a “hopeful movement” in the talks and urging Netanyahu to finalize the deal. “As I just told Prime Minister Netanyahu, it’s time to make this deal,” she said. “So to everyone who calls for a truce and to everyone who longs for peace, I see you and I hear you.
Harris also highlighted the Biden administration’s efforts to secure the release of American hostages held by Hamas and highlighted the names of the detainees. In a moving conclusion, she called for unity and condemned all forms of hatred. “Let us all condemn terrorism and violence. And let us condemn anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and hatred of all kinds.
Harris’ comments come as he navigates the complex dynamics of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which aims to address the humanitarian crisis while maintaining strong US-Israeli relations.
