‘Not a binary issue’: Kamala Harris reiterates support for Israel, calls for more humanitarian aid

Vice-President Kamala Harris spoke at a press conference following her meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday.

Harris spoke about her continued support for the hostages and highlighted that she and President Biden had been working to release them.

Happening Now: Tune in as I deliver remarks to press about my meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel. https://t.co/qNY03XVTrX

— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 25, 2024

She then spoke about “the dire humanitarian situation” in Gaza and how over two million people were facing food insecurity.

“We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies, we cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering, and I will not be silent,” she said.

Ceasefire deal plan

Harris thanked President Biden for helping to plan and push for a ceasefire deal.

She reiterated the main points of the multi-stage ceasefire deal, which would include a full ceasefire and a total withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza through stages.

“It is time for this war to end. And end in a way where Israel is secure, all the hostages are released, and the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza ends. And the Palestinian people can exercise their right to freedom, dignity, and self-determination.”

Harris then called on Netanyahu, saying, “It was time to get this deal done.”

“I remain committed to a path forward that can lead to a two-state solution,” she said.

She said that a two-state solution was the only way for Israel to remain a Jewish state and allow Palestinians the right to self-determination.

Closing, she said, “It is important for the American people to remember the war in Gaza is not a binary issue. However, too often, the conversation is binary. When the reality is anything but.”

She then called on the American people to help keep conversations nuanced and balanced and to condemn terrorism, violence, and prejudice.

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