US Vice President Kamala Harris expressed “deep concerns” over the situation faced by civilians in Gaza during her meeting with Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s war cabinet and a top rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reported AFP.
In a strong statement posted on the White House website, Harris called on Israel to allow more aid into the Palestinian territory and urged Hamas to accept a six-week ceasefire deal.
The statement said, “the Vice President expressed her deep concern about the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the recent horrific tragedy around an aid convoy in northern Gaza. The Vice President discussed the urgency of achieving a hostage deal and welcomed Israel’s constructive approach to the hostage talks.”
Sharing specifics of the meeting with Gantz, the statement added, “the Vice President and Minister Gantz discussed the situation in Rafah and the need for a credible and implementable humanitarian plan prior to contemplating any major military operation there given the risks to civilians.”
During his visit to the US, Gantz is also scheduled to meet with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He emphasized the importance of speaking openly with friends and stated that this would be the approach taken during the meetings.
Meanwhile, the White House downplayed concerns that the talks could strain relations with Netanyahu, stating that Gantz had requested the meeting while passing through Washington.
The US National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, mentioned that Israel had presented a ceasefire proposal and it was now up to Hamas to accept it.
Harris, who called for an immediate ceasefire on Sunday, also reiterated that there was no discord between herself and President Biden. She said, “The president and I have been aligned and consistent from the very beginning.”