Vice President Kamala Harris' recent remarks on Gaza indicate what could represent a significant shift in the White House's stance on the conflict with Israel.
In a notable departure from prior messaging, Harris emphasized both Israel's right to defend itself and the plight of Palestinians, calling for a ceasefire, as Newsweek reports.
On Thursday, Harris held a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Following the discussion, she expressed the twin priorities of supporting Israel's defense efforts and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee after President Joe Biden exited the race, conveyed her stance firmly. She highlighted Israel's right to self-defense and underscored the need to save hostages held by Hamas.
Importantly, Harris also addressed what she described as the suffering experienced by Palestinians. She urged Netanyahu to consider a ceasefire, underlining extensive civilian casualties and displacement caused by the nine-month conflict. Chuck Freilich, a senior fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, pointed out the noticeable contrast between Harris' comments and President Biden’s previous statements. Harris' focus on the humanitarian crisis was echoed in her prior remarks in Dubai last December and in March, where she had also called for a ceasefire.
Freilich suggested that Harris aims to establish a balanced position, especially with her current front-runner status for the Democratic ticket. This approach could be a strategic move to appeal to a broader voter base, according to experts.
Grant Davis Reeher from Syracuse University observed that Harris' new tone likely reflects her views and her effort to engage voters unhappy with the current administration's response to the Gaza conflict. He noted the potential repercussions, cautioning that altering her stance might attract some voters while alienating others.
Thomas Gift from University College London remarked on the delicate balance Harris must maintain between articulating White House policies and establishing her views. He cautioned that focusing too heavily on the conflict could hurt her politically, given its polarizing nature.
Reports from an aide confirmed that both Harris and Biden supported a ceasefire and hostage deal in their private meetings with Netanyahu. Harris' public comments were consistent, starting with a strong endorsement of Israel’s defense, followed by expressing concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Gaza war has had severe repercussions, with The Associated Press reporting at least 39,000 Palestinian deaths and significant civilian displacement. The conflict began with Hamas' deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7 of last year, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and numerous hostages being taken.
Activist Zara Rahim highlighted Harris' direct reference to the deaths of children in Gaza as a stark shift in White House rhetoric. Harris’ remarks have sparked a mix of criticism and praise on social media, varying widely across the political spectrum. Actor Mark Ruffalo welcomed this shift, calling Harris' language a breath of fresh air filled with humanity and compassion.
Harris used this opportunity to address those advocating for peace and a ceasefire. "I see you, and I hear you," she said, underscoring her alignment with the calls for ending the conflict. On the same day, Harris also denounced hateful rhetoric and violence during protests. She emphasized that antisemitism and desecration of symbols like the American flag have no place in the U.S.
Harris articulated these views passionately, saying, "We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering. And I will not be silent."
The subtle shift in the White House's tone on Gaza, as voiced by Harris, seeks to navigate the complex and sensitive geopolitical landscape while addressing the moral and ethical concerns at play. Harris' balanced approach will be pivotal as she campaigns for the presidency ahead of November.
