During a campaign rally in Phoenix, Vice President Harris responded to protesters calling for a cease-fire in the conflict between Israel and Gaza. When a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators began chanting “free, free Palestine,” Harris paused to address the situation. This marked the second interruption of her events by those expressing concern about the Gaza conflict this week.
“Hold on. We are all here together,” Harris responded. “I know many of us are gathered because we care deeply about our country.” She continued, emphasizing the importance of fighting for democracy and respecting different viewpoints. Harris also reiterated her stance on the conflict, stating, “I’ve been clear: now is the time to reach a cease-fire agreement and secure the release of hostages. Now is the time.”
Vice President Harris addresses interruptions by pro-Palestinian demonstrators
Earlier in the week, Harris faced a similar interruption in Detroit, where protesters shouted, “Kamala, Kamala you can’t hide, we won’t vote for genocide.” Harris responded directly, telling the crowd, “If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.”
On Thursday, her national security adviser clarified that Harris does not support an arms embargo on Israel, a demand from some of the protesters. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has sparked division among Democrats, especially following the October attack by Hamas that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and resulted in over 200 hostages. In response, Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza, leading to the deaths of over 30,000 Palestinians.
Harris has maintained her alignment with President Biden, reaffirming strong support for Israel while also emphasizing the importance of how Israel conducts its operations in Gaza, highlighting the need to protect civilians. “Israel has the right to defend itself, but the way it does so is crucial,” Harris stated after a recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
