Harris Pledges Support for Israel While Advocating Palestinian Self-Determination

In her acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Thursday night, Vice President Kamala Harris reaffirmed her strong support for Israel’s security while also calling for Palestinian self-determination and an end to the suffering in Gaza. As the party’s nominee for president, Harris addressed the complex and pressing issues surrounding the ongoing conflict in the region, making clear her commitment to both Israeli defense and Palestinian rights.

Amid speculation on how she would approach the war in Gaza, Harris was the only speaker at the convention to directly address the situation in Israel and Gaza. Her remarks highlighted the Biden administration’s efforts to secure a hostage deal and bring about a ceasefire.

“Now is the time to get a hostage deal and a ceasefire deal done,” Harris stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Her mention of Israel brought the crowd to its feet as she declared, “I will always stand up for Israel's right to defend itself, and I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself.” She referenced the horrors of the October 7 Hamas attack, which included unspeakable violence and the massacre of young people at a music festival, reaffirming her stance against terrorism.

However, Harris also addressed the devastating impact of the war in Gaza over the past ten months, noting the immense loss of innocent lives and the desperation of those fleeing for safety. “The scale of suffering is heartbreaking,” she said, emphasizing the need to end the conflict in a way that secures Israel, releases hostages, and honors the Palestinian people’s right to dignity, security, freedom, and self-determination.

Harris concluded by asserting the necessity of defending U.S. forces and interests against Iran and its proxies, signaling her broader foreign policy priorities in the region.

As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Harris’s speech highlighted her approach to one of the most challenging and emotionally charged issues on the global stage, balancing a commitment to Israel’s defense with a call for humanitarian action and justice for Palestinians.

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