Washington DC (US): US Vice President Kamala Harris avoided directly answering a question about whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considered a "close ally" of the United States. In an interview with CBS News's 60 Minutes, released on Sunday, Harris was asked about the US's role in addressing Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. This comes amidst growing criticism of Netanyahu’s actions, despite the US urging for de-escalation in the region.
Harris, who is running as a Democratic candidate in the upcoming Presidential election, said efforts were being made to pressure Israel and Arab nations in the Middle East toward a ceasefire agreement. "The work that we have done has resulted in several movements in that region by Israel," Harris said. However, when asked specifically whether Netanyahu could still be considered a "real, close ally" of the US, Harris responded, "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'."
The US provides Israel with an annual military aid package of at least $3.8 billion, with an additional $14 billion approved by President Biden since the conflict in Gaza escalated on October 7 last year. While the US claims to support de-escalation, it also continues to back Israel's right to defend itself. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "Attacks, targeted attacks on civilians, could not be justified, but Israel does have the right to go after terrorists." Miller emphasized the importance of Israel minimizing civilian harm and complying with international humanitarian law.
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