Skeptics hopeful as Kamala Harris stays united with Joe Biden on Gaza.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris recently made a significant statement on the ongoing war in Gaza, marking her first major statement on the issue since becoming the Democratic Party’s presumptive presidential nominee. Harris emphasized the need for conditions to improve for Palestinians, while also supporting the current U.S. approach of arming Israel and seeking a cease-fire simultaneously.

During discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Harris highlighted the administration’s efforts to encourage a truce between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. She expressed concern over the devastating impact of the conflict, citing heartbreaking images of dead children and hungry refugees fleeing for safety.

While Harris stressed Israel’s right to defend itself, she also urged Netanyahu to finalize a deal to help Palestinians and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Her vivid descriptions and detailed approach to addressing the conflict’s effects set her apart from President Biden, signaling a potential difference in rhetoric between the two leaders.

With the majority of committed Democrats and independents opposing the U.S.-backed Israeli offensive, Harris faces the challenge of balancing continuity with the administration’s policy and asserting her own stance on the war. As she navigates her role on the world stage, the risks associated with the current Gaza policy have become increasingly prominent.

Concerns over the spread of polio in Gaza, rampant destruction of medical and clean water infrastructure, and the escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas ally Hezbollah have intensified calls for the U.S. to leverage its influence to push for a shift in Israeli policies. Many experts suggest that Washington should consider holding Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza to alleviate tensions in the region.

Following her meeting with Netanyahu, Israeli officials expressed surprise at Harris’ implicit criticisms, indicating a potential shift in Israeli calculations due to her influence. Stateside, political observers speculate on whether Harris will deviate from the Biden administration’s policy and take a firmer stance against Israel, aligning more closely with the concerns of certain factions within the Democratic Party.

While Harris has shown empathy towards Palestinian suffering in her public statements, her alignment with Biden’s policy since the outbreak of the conflict leaves some skeptical about the extent of her willingness to challenge the administration’s approach. Her past comments and official communications suggest a cautious approach rather than a complete overhaul of U.S.-Israel relations.

Advocates for a different U.S. strategy on Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict hope to push Harris towards a more progressive stance. Personal relationships and influences, such as her connection to her pastor and interactions with Black church leaders, could play a role in shaping her perspective on the issue.

As a potential future president, Harris has the opportunity to set a different tone on foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East. Supporters believe that she could bring a fresh approach to addressing the conflict, emphasizing human rights standards and accountability for international law violations.

While Harris faces pressure to align with the Democratic Party’s foreign policy parameters, the ongoing conflict in Gaza presents a significant challenge that could impact her stance as the November election approaches. Her decisions on Gaza policy and engagement with various stakeholders will ultimately shape her candidacy and potential presidency.

As Harris continues to navigate her role in addressing the Gaza conflict, the expectations and demands for change from various groups within the Democratic Party and beyond will influence her approach to the crisis. The spotlight remains on her actions and decisions in the coming months as she grapples with the complexities of the conflict and the need for a sustainable resolution.