As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commences his official visit to Washington, all eyes are on Vice President Kamala Harris. With her recent ascension as the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Harris's approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict has come under intense scrutiny.
Harris has emerged as a distinctive voice within the Biden administration on the Israel-Gaza war. Her rhetoric, particularly concerning Palestinian civilians, has been notably more empathetic than that of President Biden. In a pivotal speech in Selma, Alabama, Harris called for an "immediate cease-fire" and criticized Israel for creating a "humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza. This language marked a significant departure from the administration's previous communications.
Despite her more critical stance, Harris is not expected to diverge from current U.S. policy in her private meeting with Netanyahu. Her call for a cease-fire aligns with the administration's position, contingent on Hamas accepting an Israeli proposal to halt fighting in exchange for hostage releases. However, her emphasis on human suffering has resonated with many voters, particularly among progressive Democrats who have grown disillusioned with Biden's approach.
Harris's stance could prove crucial for the Democratic Party. Biden has faced declining popularity among progressive voters due to his unwavering support for Israel. Democrats hope Harris can bridge this gap, appealing to liberals who have expressed reluctance to support Biden over his Israel policies.
Analysts note that Harris doesn't seem to share the same deep emotional connection to Israel as Biden, who has described himself as a Zionist. This difference could potentially lead to a more pragmatic approach to the conflict if Harris were to assume the presidency.
Harris has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict. She has held regular conversations with Israeli officials and played a key role in talks with Arab leaders when relations became strained over the war. In December, she announced U.S. opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and outlined a plan for post-war reconstruction and governance.
Historically, Harris has been a strong supporter of Israel. As a senator, she spoke at AIPAC conventions and co-sponsored resolutions supporting Israel. Her evolving stance reflects the complex nature of the conflict and the changing political landscape within the United States.
As Netanyahu's visit unfolds, Harris's words and actions will be closely watched. Her ability to balance support for Israel with empathy for Palestinian suffering could set the tone for future U.S. policy in the region. It also has the potential to reshape the Democratic Party's approach to one of the most contentious issues in American foreign policy.
The coming days will reveal much about Harris's diplomatic skills and her vision for U.S.-Israel relations. As she navigates this political minefield, her performance could have far-reaching implications for both international relations and domestic politics in the run-up to the November elections.
* The New York Times contributed to this article.