Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the United States' relationship with Israel during a recent interview on "60 Minutes," which will air on Monday, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of Hamas' attacks on Israel.
In response to questions about whether the U.S. considers Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a close ally, Harris emphasized the importance of the alliance between the American and Israeli people. She stated, "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 interview also covered significant issues in the Middle East, including Netanyahu's hesitance to agree to a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, as well as the need for Israeli forces to avoid entering Lebanon. Since the conflict began last October, over 41,600 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives, and nearly 60% of Gaza's buildings have been destroyed or damaged. Lebanese health officials have recorded more than 2,000 fatalities, most occurring recently due to Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah.
Whitaker pointed out that the U.S. provides Israel with billions of dollars in military aid, yet Netanyahu appears to be pursuing an independent course. In response, Harris highlighted that this aid enables Israel to defend itself against various threats, including attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah. She remarked, "When we think about the threat that Hamas, Hezbollah presents — Iran — I think that it is, without any question, our imperative to do what we can to allow Israel to defend itself against those kinds of attacks."
Harris also noted the ongoing diplomatic efforts with Israeli leadership, stressing the necessity for humanitarian aid, an end to the conflict, and the need for a ceasefire that would facilitate the release of hostages. She affirmed that the U.S. will continue to exert pressure on Israel and engage with regional Arab leaders to advocate for these principles.
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