Until Joe Biden stepped aside, Kamala Harris was known primarily as his vice president. While she isn't anti-Israel or antisemitic, her potential presidency raises serious concerns for both Israel's security and possibly even for Jewish people all over the world.
Beyond Surface-Level Support
Harris's Jewish husband and general support for Israel's existence mask a more complex reality. She represents the most progressive voice ever to reach the White House, ideologically closer to Bernie Sanders than to Republican Mike Johnson. While she has backed Israel during the current war, she has consistently emphasized Palestinian suffering, even before becoming the Democratic nominee—suggesting she genuinely views the Arab world as victims and Israel as an aggressor, albeit one she grudgingly grants the right to self-defense.
The Progressive Dilemma
The extreme progressive movement within the Democratic Party has blurred lines between right and wrong. Many Democrats who oppose Israel aren't necessarily antisemitic, but they've become convinced that Israel is a cruel child-killer belonging to the "wrong side" of history.
Defense vs. Offense
Harris's vision for Israel appears to be purely defensive. Unlike Biden, who calls himself a Zionist, Harris maintains a lukewarm stance. She believes Israel should survive but likely won't support offensive operations against Arab states or Iran, even to prevent another October 7-style attack.
Potential Policy Shifts
These are some concerning scenarios that might occur, should Harris win today:
- She could (and probably will) restrict offensive weapons shipments to Israel while maintaining defensive aid
- It's likely that she will only give Israel the support it needs if it agrees to 'restrain' itself against its enemies
- It's also incredibly likely that she will force Israel to accept ceasefires across all fronts
- as if these things aren't bad enough, she will also limit Israel's ability to act against emerging threats
Strategic Implications
Harris seems to view Israel as facing no existential threats—not from Gaza, Hezbollah, or Iran—as long as the US promises protection. This could force Israel into a dangerous position: watching enemies arm themselves, potentially with nuclear weapons, while lacking the ability to respond pre-emptively.
In essence, Harris would likely ensure Israel's basic survival as an American interest in the Middle East, but possibly at the cost of its autonomy and long-term security.