Happening now, Vice President Kamala Harris is meeting with Israeli War Cabinet member Benny Gantz. The high-level talks come as the U.S. pushes Israel to agree to a temporary ceasefire with Hamas. Before the meeting, the Vice President shared a message emphasizing Israel's right to defend itself while expressing concern for the loss of innocent Palestinian lives and the urgent need for humanitarian aid and hostage release.
The meeting between Vice President Harris and Benny Gantz is crucial amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, marked by a deepening humanitarian crisis. The U.S. has initiated airdrops of essential supplies, including food, to alleviate the suffering in Gaza. President Biden has called for an immediate six-week temporary ceasefire as part of ongoing efforts to secure a hostages deal.
The strained relationship between the Biden administration and the Netanyahu government adds complexity to the discussions. Benny Gantz's visit to Washington, not fully endorsed by Prime Minister Netanyahu, has raised tensions within the Israeli government. Vice President Harris's poignant remarks highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for action to address the humanitarian catastrophe.
The U.S. administration has made it clear that the onus is on Hamas to respond to ceasefire and hostages deal proposals. President Biden remains optimistic about reaching a resolution before Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of ending the conflict swiftly and responsibly.
