The ongoing suffering in Gaza, which started when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, is not news to anyone. Days after her presidential nomination, Vice President Kamala Harris just made a firm commitment to address the situation, stressing the urgent need to achieve a ceasefire.
The Democratic presidential candidate, in a recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, conveyed her deep concerns and emphasized the need for Israel to consider the impact of its defensive actions.
Kamala Harris Advocates for Peace and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza
According to her statement, “Israel has the right to defend itself, but the methods it employs are crucial. The devastation in Gaza over the past nine months is heartbreaking.” Just so you know, this conflict, which started after the October 7 attacks, has resulted in serious disaster in Gaza.
In fact, it has displaced nearly the entire population of 2 million! Given the situation of things, Kamala Harris vividly described the sad scenes of children losing their lives and desperate people fleeing occasionally for safety.
ALSO READ: Who Is Kamala Harris’ Husband? Everything we know about Douglas Emhoff
All these still stress the need for swift attention and compassion for these tragedies. And guess what? Harris is not backing down in the face of this suffering. As previously mentioned, she has clearly articulated her stance.
So, while reaffirming America’s steadfast support for Israel, she also urged for a decisive end to the conflict.
Kamala Harris’s Take on the US-Backed Ceasefire
According to Kamala Harris, a US-backed ceasefire and hostage release agreement is important because it is imperative for the war to conclude in a manner that ensures Israel’s security, the release of all hostages, and the alleviation of Palestinian suffering.
Kamala Harris also stressed that Palestinians should be able to pursue their rights to freedom, dignity, and self-determination. There seems to be some positive progress in the negotiations because Harris confirmed that she has been actively encouraging Prime Minister Netanyahu to finalize the deal.
ALSO READ: Which of These Democrats Will Be Kamala Harris’ Vice President Pick?
She conveyed her message to Netanyahu, insisting that it is crucial to agree. Addressing those advocating for a ceasefire and peace, Harris assured them that their voices are heard and acknowledged.
Tensions Rise Over Hostage Negotiations in Israel
While Harris is actively encouraging the Israeli Prime Minister, the Hostages Families Forum has a different take. The forum has accused the Prime Minister of deliberately stalling negotiations aimed at securing the release of remaining hostages in Gaza.
The Forum has called this delay an intentional hindrance to reuniting families with their loved ones and is demanding an immediate meeting to address their concerns. Elsewhere, far-right members of the Israeli cabinet have opposed the proposed deal.
They keep criticizing the pressure from Kamala Harris. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich noted that agreeing to Harris’ deal is more like capitulating to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza.
According to Smotrich, such an agreement would allow Hamas to rebuild and would leave many hostages in captivity. So, Smotrich says everyone should be cautious of falling into what he described as a trap.
More Details Surrounding Kamala Harris’ Call for a Ceasefire
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has also insisted that the war will not end despite Harris’ calls for a ceasefire. His comments are focused on a broader resistance within the Israeli cabinet to external pressures to end the conflict prematurely.
Following Kamala Harris’ statements, Israeli media have reported concerns from a senior Israeli official who believes that her pressure could hinder efforts to reach a deal. This apprehension within Netanyahu’s inner circle suggests that Harris’ emergence as the likely Democratic presidential candidate might signal a more stringent U.S. stance on Israel’s actions in the conflict with Hamas.
As though that wasn’t enough, Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan complained about Harris’ tone, suggesting that it had raised alarm among Israeli officials. Well, as it stands, preparations are underway for another round of ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
These negotiations will likely involve CIA Director Bill Burns and other mediators early. Additionally, representatives from Israel, Egypt, and Qatar will most likely participate in these talks, according to an informed official.
You Might Also Like:
Steve Harvey’s Kids: Inside the “Family Feud” Host’s Personal Life
John Schneider and Dee Dee Sorvino Tie the Knot in Surprise Las Vegas Wedding
Surprising Rules Athletes Must Follow in the Olympic Village
