In her first week as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris will confront the most politically divisive issue in U.S. foreign policy as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel pays an official visit to Washington.
Ms. Harris’ Stance on Israel-Hamas Conflict
Ms. Harris has emerged as a forceful voice on the Israel-Hamas war, particularly in discussing the plight of innocent Palestinians. In a civil rights speech in Selma, Ala., this year, Ms. Harris garnered attention for calling for an “immediate cease-fire” and criticizing Israel for creating a “humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza.
Expectations from Ms. Harris
Ms. Harris will meet privately with the Israeli leader at the White House, with her remarks before and after their conversation being closely watched for signals about her approach to Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza should she win the White House in November.
Progressive Democrats’ Views
President Biden’s popularity among progressive Democratic voters has declined as he has resisted calls to halt the flow of American arms to Israel. Democrats hope that Ms. Harris, who has been more critical of the conflict than Mr. Biden, can win back liberal voters who have been disheartened by the current administration’s Israel policies.
Ms. Harris’ Schedule
Ms. Harris plans to skip Mr. Netanyahu’s address to a joint session of Congress to speak at an event in Indiana hosted by one of the country’s largest historically Black sororities. This decision is seen as a strategic move to keep her commitment while avoiding potential controversies.
Meeting with Mr. Netanyahu
While Ms. Harris is known for her critical views on the Gaza conflict, she is not expected to express differing opinions to Mr. Netanyahu in their meeting, aligning with the current administration’s policies.
