Kamala Harris Stands by US Aid to Israel Despite Ceasefire Demands

US Vice President Kamala Harris reaffirmed the Biden administration’s commitment to Israel’s security while also advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. In an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes” on Sunday, Harris defended the US decision to continue military aid to Israel, saying the support was crucial in helping the country defend itself from missile attacks, such as the 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran last week.

“The aid that we have given Israel allowed Israel to defend itself against 200 ballistic missiles that were just meant to attack the people of Israel,” Harris said in the interview, which aired Sunday night. She emphasized the necessity of protecting Israel against threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, underscoring the US’s "imperative" to ensure Israel can defend itself from such attacks.

Harris also addressed concerns that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is diverging from US interests, particularly in the prolonged conflict with Hamas. She maintained that the US is engaged in ongoing diplomatic efforts to influence Israel's actions. “The work that we do diplomatically with the leadership of Israel is an ongoing pursuit... around humanitarian aid, the need for this war to end, the need for a deal to be done which would release the hostages and create a ceasefire,” she said, assuring that Washington would continue pressing for these outcomes.

The Biden administration has faced growing scrutiny for its approach to the war, especially given the expanding conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. When asked about the progress of US diplomatic efforts, Harris defended the administration’s actions, though she provided limited examples of success, instead pointing to broader movements within the region as evidence of the administration’s influence.

When questioned about her relationship with Netanyahu, Harris shifted the focus to the strong ties between the American and Israeli people, emphasizing the enduring alliance despite policy disagreements. “Do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people? And the answer to that question is yes,” she stated.

Harris’ comments come at a time of rising tensions in the Middle East, with the Iranian missile strike last week further destabilizing the region. Harris condemned the attack as “reckless and brazen,” reiterating her commitment to Israel’s security and stressing the threat posed by Iran. She assured that the US would always back Israel’s right to defend itself against Iran and its proxy militias.

Although Harris has consistently aligned herself with President Biden’s policies, she has also highlighted the humanitarian needs in Gaza, calling for efforts to alleviate the suffering of civilians while maintaining the focus on Israel’s security.

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