Kamala Harris to Skip Benjamin Netanyahu’s Address to US Congress

Vice President Kamala Harris will not attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s joint address to Congress this week but will hold a separate bilateral meeting with him at the White House. This information is based on a report from Politico, which relies on a Harris aide who spoke anonymously about the internal plans.

Harris intends to attend an event for the Zeta Phi Beta sorority in Indianapolis on the same day as Netanyahu’s address. This scheduling conflict provides Harris with an opportunity to avoid the political debate surrounding the address, which has become a contentious issue among many Democrats critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza.

What will Harris focus on during her meeting with Israeli PM?

During her private meeting with Netanyahu, Harris plans to emphasize her commitment to Israel’s security and its right to self-defense. However, she will also stress the need for the war to end in a manner that ensures Israel's security, the release of all hostages, an end to the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and the realization of the Palestinian people’s right to dignity, freedom, and self-determination, the aide said.

In addition to discussing the ongoing conflict, Harris is expected to address the current negotiations for a cease-fire deal.

Harris wants US to be ‘tougher’ on Netanyahu 

The vice president has expressed differing views from President Joe Biden on the issue of Israel and Gaza. Harris has been advocating for a more prominent acknowledgment of the humanitarian impact in Gaza and has suggested that the U.S. should adopt a tougher stance toward Netanyahu, according to sources close to her office.

As of now, it is unclear how Harris' views on the Israel-Hamas war will impact her chances of winning the election.