US Vice President Omits Question on Netanyahu’s “Ally” Status Amid Escalating Middle East Violence
Vice President Kamala Harris has declined to label Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “close ally” of the United States, drawing further scrutiny on the Biden administration’s stance on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Al Jazeera reports.
In an interview with CBS News’ 60 Minutes, Harris was pressed on the US’s efforts to pressure Israel to end its military offensives in Gaza and Lebanon. While acknowledging that the US is applying pressure on both Israel and regional Arab leaders to reach a ceasefire, Harris provided no specifics on the nature or effectiveness of these efforts.
When asked directly if Netanyahu could be considered a “real, close ally,” Harris shifted the focus to the broader alliance between the two nations.
“I think, with all due respect, the better question is, do we have an important alliance between the American people and the Israeli people? And the answer to that question is ‘yes’.”
Harris’s response has fueled criticism of the Biden administration’s continued staunch support for Netanyahu’s government, even as the Israeli military wages a relentless bombardment of Gaza and Lebanon.
Analysts have accused Netanyahu of deliberately delaying a potential ceasefire in Gaza for political gain. Observers warn that Washington’s failure to press Israel to end the conflict could escalate tensions in the region and potentially lead to a wider conflict.
Rights advocates have urged the Biden administration to impose an arms embargo on Israel, citing the staggering number of Palestinian casualties. Over 41,800 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while at least 1,100 people have died in Lebanon since the Israeli military escalated its bombing campaign.
Despite the mounting violence, the Biden administration has repeatedly stated its commitment to diplomacy and de-escalation while simultaneously affirming Israel’s “right to defend itself.” This policy has come under renewed fire as tensions rise between Israel and Iran.
The administration’s decision to maintain significant military aid to Israel, including $3.8 billion annually and an additional $14 billion since the start of the Gaza war, has further fueled controversy.
