Harris says she ‘will not be silent’ on Gaza suffering while telling Netanyahu to get ceasefire deal done

Amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, Vice President Kamala Harris pledged to "not be silent" about the suffering in Gaza. She told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday that it is time to finalize a ceasefire agreement and voiced her "serious concern."

"How Israel defends itself matters; it has a right to do so. Following her meeting with Netanyahu in Washington, Harris, the presumed Democratic presidential contender, told reporters, "What has happened in Gaza over the past nine months is devastating."

"The pictures of starving and helpless youngsters running for their lives, often for the second, third, or fourth time, in search of safety. We are unable to turn a blind eye to these disasters. She went on, "We cannot allow ourselves to grow indifferent to the pain, and I will not remain mute.

As she attempts to strike a balance on the matter that has not only split the nation but also created strife within the Democratic Party, Harris' remarks were the most lucid exposition of her opinions to far over the debate. Harris reiterated what Biden has said time and time again on America's "unwavering commitment" and "ironclad support" for Israel, but she did it with a stronger message about ending the conflict.

"It is time for this war to end and end in a way where Israel is secure, all the hostages are released, the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can exercise their right to freedom, dignity, and self-determination," Harris said, recalling the specifics of the proposed ceasefire and hostage deal backed by the US.

The vice president urged the prime minister to resolve the dispute, saying that there has been "hopeful movement" in the negotiations.

It's time to close this agreement, as I just informed Prime Minister Netanyahu," she remarked. Thus, "I see you and I hear you, everyone who has been calling for a ceasefire and to everyone who longs for peace."

Harris stated that efforts are being made by the Biden administration to return the American hostages held in Gaza. After meeting with the families, the vice president gave a list of the people that Hamas is holding captive.

"It is important for the American people to remember, the war in Gaza is not a binary issue," Harris told reporters at a momentous moment toward the end of her comments.

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