US Vice-President Kamala Harris, anticipated to be the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election, engaged in “frank and constructive” discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing serious concerns about the casualties in Gaza.
Harris emphasized the importance of how Israel conducts its defense and called for an end to the conflict, highlighting the need for a two-state solution and urging Americans to recognize the complexities of the situation.
Earlier, Netanyahu met with President Joe Biden, who recently ended his re-election campaign.
Netanyahu’s meetings followed his assertive speech to Congress promising total victory against Hamas, amidst pro-Palestinian protests.
The prime minister faces pressure to resolve the nine-month-long Israel-Gaza war.
Harris reiterated her support for Israel’s right to defend itself but stressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet Republican nominee Donald Trump.
During his earlier meeting with Biden, Netanyahu praised the president’s longstanding support for Israel.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby noted that despite some disagreements, the US-Israel relationship remains robust. Biden and Netanyahu discussed issues such as hostage release, regional conflict risks, and peace negotiations.
They also met with families of US citizens held by Hamas, with one family member describing the meeting as “productive and honest.”
