Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to visit the White House on Thursday, marking his first visit before President Donald Trump left office in 2020. This meeting, involving President Joe Biden and likely Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, comes at a critical time for all three leaders, as they face immense pressure to address the ongoing nine-month war in Gaza, which has resulted in over 39,000 deaths.
A Critical Moment for US-Israel Relations
Netanyahu’s visit is pivotal for Israel and the United States. President Biden is striving to secure a deal that would release the remaining hostages in Gaza over three phases. This would be a significant legacy for the 81-year-old Democrat, who has endorsed Harris for the upcoming election. “White House officials say that the negotiations are in the closing stages, but there are issues that need to be resolved,” highlighting the delicate nature of these talks.
Harris’ Role and Challenges
Vice President Harris, who will meet separately with Netanyahu, aims to prove her capability as a potential commander-in-chief. Facing scrutiny from the political left and Republicans, Harris must balance demonstrating strong support for Israel while addressing criticisms of the Biden administration’s conflict handling. A senior administration official noted, “There is no daylight between the president and vice president on Israel,” emphasizing their united stance.
Netanyahu’s Congressional Address
In a passionate address to Congress, Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions during the war, rebutting accusations of war crimes by the International Criminal Court. He emphasized Israel’s role in protecting shared interests in the Middle East, stating, “Our fight, it’s your fight. And our victory will be your victory.” Netanyahu also acknowledged both Biden and Trump’s contributions to Israel, reflecting on significant actions such as recognizing Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Security and Protests
Heightened security measures have been implemented at the White House in anticipation of Netanyahu’s visit following protests near the U.S. Capitol. Vice President Harris expressed her outrage at pro-Hamas graffiti and flag-burning incidents, declaring, “Pro-Hamas graffiti and rhetoric are abhorrent, and we must not tolerate it in our nation.” Her condemnation underscored the administration’s firm stance against such actions.
Harris’ Absence and Criticism
Harris faced criticism for missing Netanyahu’s address to Congress, which White House officials defended as a scheduling conflict. Despite the absence, Harris remains a staunch supporter of Israel, with deep personal and professional ties to the country. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reaffirmed, “The vice president has been unwavering in her commitment to the security of Israel.”
Looking Ahead
As Netanyahu prepares to meet with former President Trump in Florida, the outcomes of his discussions with Biden and Harris will significantly impact the future of US-Israel relations. The stakes are high for all involved as they navigate complex political landscapes and strive for resolutions that could shape their legacies and influence the broader geopolitical environment.
This meeting at the White House represents a crucial juncture for Netanyahu, Biden, and Harris. Their negotiations and the resulting actions will play a vital role in addressing the ongoing conflict and defining the future of their respective political careers.
