Vice President Kamala Harris has been pushing for President Joe Biden and others within the administration to change their tune on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to sources close to her.
During internal conversations with various people within the Biden Administration, Harris has reportedly been calling for more sensitivity to be taken towards the Palestinian people as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, three people who know of Harris’ comments told Politico.
One senior official told the outlet Harris has reportedly stressed having a game plan in effect for how to handle the wreckage of the war once the conflict ends.
Another person added Harris believes the United States should be “more forceful at seeking a long-term peace and two-state solution” and should take a “tougher” approach on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Politico: VP Kamala Harris has urged President Biden "to show more sensitivity to Palestinian civilians."
Harris "has long been more attuned to criticism from the left than her more moderate running mate, and more determined to align herself with younger and more progressive…— Josh Kraushaar (@JoshKraushaar) December 14, 2023Should the Biden Administration change its tune on the Israel and Hamas conflict?
Harris’ press secretary, Kirsten Allen, however, told the outlet there is no difference in opinion between Biden and Harris and both share the beliefs that “Israel has a right and responsibility to defend itself; humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow into Gaza; innocent civilians must be protected; and the United States remains committed to a two-state solution.”
This comes as the Biden Administration has received criticism regarding its continued support for Israel in the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Israel and Hamas agreed to a week-long truce at the end of November, resulting in more than 100 hostages held captive by Hamas being released.
Since the truce has ended and fighting between the two has resumed, more than 40 White House interns have issued a letter to Biden and Harris calling for a permanent ceasefire. Additionally, several White House staffers took part in a vigil outside of the White House calling for a ceasefire.
Several Democratic donors and lawmakers have also vocalized their disappointment with the Biden Administration regarding its support of Israel and have stated they won’t be supporting Biden and Harris in their efforts to be re-elected.
