Kamala Harris Demonstrates Her Solidarity with Israel at the Democratic National Convention Speech

By: TMO Staff 

Kamala Harris accepted her nomination at the Democratic National Convention last Thursday. While celebratory her speech also discussed the conflict overseas including an immediate ceasefire and deal to free hostages, with her strongly supporting Israel’s right to defend itself.

“I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself,” said Harris. “The people of Israel must never again face the horrors inflicted by Hamas on October 7. This included acts of sexual violence and the massacre of young people at a music festival.”

In her speech, Harris spoke about ending the Israel-Hamas conflict. Although she supports Israel’s right to defend itself, she opposes actions that harm innocents, she said noting that she aims to stabilize the region and bring peace between Israelis and Palestinians. “No one should live in a state of constant war,” Harris explained.

Harris also criticized the sale of weapons that result in civilian deaths, noting that nearly 40,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict. “No one should have to live in a state of constant war,” she said, highlighting the gravity of the situation and her concern for all lives involved.

Outside the convention center, a large group of protesters gathered to emphasize the war’s impact on civilians. Many vowed to vote uncommitted, hoping to draw attention to broader issues related to the conflict and make their voices heard amid the political proceedings.

The convention did not include a Palestinian American speaker, focusing instead on speeches about hostages held in Israel. This decision has received backlash from various groups, who feel it failed to address the conflict’s impact or give a voice to those suffering on the other side.

Despite her strong support for Israel, Harris acknowledged the need for dignity and security for Palestinians. She recently met with Israeli leaders to reaffirm her commitment to supporting Israel. However, she also spoke about the severe suffering of Palestinians.

“What has happened in Gaza over the past ten months is devastating,” Harris said. “So many innocent lives have been lost. The scale of suffering is heartbreaking.”

The decision not to feature a Palestinian American speaker at the convention has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it shows disrespect for those affected by the conflict. The focus on hostages in Israel, without including a Palestinian American perspective, has fueled debate.

Harris’s speech highlights the challenge of balancing support for Israel with sensitivity to the suffering of Palestinians. She insists on Israel’s right to defend itself but also calls for an end to the violence. This delicate balance underscores the complexity of U.S. foreign policy.

The response to Harris’s speech will be significant as the convention continues. The Democratic Party must navigate varying attitudes toward the Israel-Palestine conflict. How they handle these issues will shape their strategy and support base in the months ahead. Harris’s speech is likely to influence the party’s approach to these complex issues.

The Democratic Party must carefully address the concerns of various groups while also maintaining unity among their own party. However, the party manages these issues will be crucial in shaping their political strategy and support base.