Vice President Kamala Harris’ Office Rejects Israeli Official’s Criticism

Vice President Kamala Harris’ Office Rejects Israeli Official’s Claim That Remarks Could Have Hindered Ceasefire Deal

Vice President Kamala Harris’ office has dismissed a suggestion from a senior Israeli official that her recent remarks criticizing Israel’s conduct in its war against Hamas in Gaza could have made a ceasefire deal harder to reach.

“I don’t know what they’re talking about,” a Harris aide told CNN in response to the Israeli official’s comments. The official had expressed concern that Harris’ remarks may be interpreted by Hamas as a rift between the US and Israel, potentially complicating efforts to secure a deal.

Harris, after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that she would “not be silent” about the death and destruction in Gaza. She emphasized that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the manner in which it does so is crucial.

The vice president’s office clarified that her message to Netanyahu aligned with President Joe Biden’s stance on the matter. Both Biden and Harris urged Netanyahu to prioritize reaching a ceasefire and a hostage deal.

Harris’ office emphasized that her comments on the conflict were consistent with her previous statements, showing unwavering support for Israel while expressing concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in the displacement of nearly all of Gaza’s 2 million residents and widespread destruction in the territory.

Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage deal are set to resume in Rome, with CIA Director Bill Burns expected to meet with mediators from Egypt and Qatar, as well as Israeli intelligence officials. The CIA has not provided any comments on the matter.

As efforts to secure a ceasefire continue, the international community remains hopeful for a resolution to the conflict.