Kamala Harris calls for 'immediate' Gaza ceasefire, criticizes Israel

Washington: In a notable departure from the usual diplomatic stance, United States Vice President Kamala Harris has called for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza, accompanied by a rare rebuke of Israel.

Harris emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire, stating, "Given the immense scale of suffering in Gaza, there must be an immediate ceasefire for at least the next six weeks, which is what is currently on the table. This will get the hostages out and get a significant amount of aid in."

In an uncommonly strong criticism of Israel by the Biden administration, Harris insisted that Israel should take additional measures to facilitate aid delivery, including the opening of new border crossings and a commitment to avoid "unnecessary restrictions." She underscored the dire conditions in Gaza, declaring, "People in Gaza are starving. The conditions are inhumane, and our common humanity compels us to act. The Israeli government must do more to significantly increase the flow of aid. No excuses."

Addressing the tragic incident on Thursday, where over 100 Palestinians were killed while attempting to access food aid in Gaza City, Harris expressed condolences, stating, "Our hearts break for the victims of that horrific tragedy."

She also asked Hamas to accept the terms of a ceasefire deal, asserting, "Hamas needs to agree to that deal. Let's get a ceasefire. Let's reunite the hostages with their families. And let's provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza."

These statements from Harris come amid increasing pressure on President Joe Biden's administration regarding its stance on Israel, particularly from left-leaning voters.

Democrats are concerned that Biden's position on the Gaza conflict could impact his electoral support, especially in battleground states like Michigan, where voters have expressed dissatisfaction through votes for "uncommitted" during the Democratic primary.