Harris affirms 'unwavering' support for Israel while stating 'it is time for this war to end.'

• Israel has the right to defend itself, and the way it does so is important.
• Harris' remarks followed a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
• Harris stated that it is time for the war to end, with Israel being secure, hostages being released, and the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza coming to an end.

During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington on Thursday, Vice President Kamala Harris stated that "Israel has a right to defend itself ... and how it does matters."

Harris stated that it is time for the war to end with Israel being secure, hostages being released, the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza ending, and the Palestinian people being able to exercise their right to freedom, dignity, and self-determination.

The Democratic presidential nominee, Harris, has been under pressure to clarify her stance on the Israeli war with Hamas in Gaza since she launched her campaign on Sunday.

Harris stated that her discussion with Netanyahu was "candid," and she urged him to make progress on a comprehensive plan to reduce the conflict in Gaza, free hostages, and allow Palestinians to resume their normal routines.

""I informed Prime Minister Netanyahu that it is time to finalize this deal," she stated."

"To those advocating for a ceasefire and seeking peace, I acknowledge your presence and listen to your voices. Let us work together to release the hostages and alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people."

The Israeli delegation's visit to Washington was met with controversy, resulting in a polarizing meeting.

On Wednesday, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the U.S. Capitol to protest Netanyahu's visit and America's support for Israel. The protesters vandalized statues and burned American flags, replacing them with Palestinian flags.

"Harris condemned any individuals who associated with Hamas, which aimed to destroy Israel and kill Jews, and stated that pro-Hamas graffiti and rhetoric were unacceptable in the country."

"Harris condemned terrorism and violence after meeting with Netanyahu, urging all to prevent the suffering of innocent civilians and condemn anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and hate of any kind. He also called for unity in the country."

Earlier in the day, Biden and Netanyahu had a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office, followed by a meeting with the families of American hostages.

Jonathan Dekel-Chen, whose son Sagui is currently being held hostage in Gaza, stated that he feels more optimistic than he has since the first round of releases in late November, early December, where a little over 100 of Israel's hostages were released.

"The Biden administration and Prime Minister Netanyahu have given us an absolute commitment that they understand the urgency of this moment and will not delay in completing the current deal."

The Ministry of Health in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, reports that over 39,000 Palestinians have been killed since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, and approximately 90,000 have been injured.

On October 7, 2023, Israel launched a military incursion following a brutal surprise attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,800 people.

"The events in Gaza over the past nine months have been devastating," said Harris. "We must not turn a blind eye to these atrocities. We must remain sensitive to the suffering and I will not remain silent."

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