On Thursday, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris met separately with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House amid ongoing efforts to secure a cease-fire in the Gaza conflict. This visit marked Biden’s first face-to-face meeting with Netanyahu since his visit to Israel following the Hamas attacks on October 7. Harris’s meeting with Netanyahu was also notable as she has recently become a prominent figure in the presidential race.
Biden’s meeting with Netanyahu, held in the Oval Office, focused on reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security and addressing threats from Iran and associated groups. The discussion also included efforts to finalize a cease-fire agreement and address the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Biden and Netanyahu were scheduled to meet with American hostage families later in the day to discuss the ongoing situation.
Vice President Harris’s meeting with Netanyahu in the vice president’s ceremonial office emphasized her support for a cease-fire deal. She urged for the immediate end to the conflict, the release of hostages, and relief for Palestinian civilians. Harris’s remarks highlighted her commitment to both Israel’s security and the need to address Palestinian suffering, reflecting her role in shaping U.S. policy on the issue.
Netanyahu’s visit comes amidst criticism of his government’s approach to the Gaza conflict and hostage negotiations. He expressed gratitude for Biden’s support and defended Israel’s military actions against international criticism. Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Friday.
The Biden administration views the cease-fire agreement as being close to completion, though significant gaps remain. The agreement would initially involve a six-week pause in fighting and the release of hostages, with further negotiations to establish a permanent cease-fire and address additional issues.
Biden Administration Perspective:
The administration emphasizes a strong commitment to Israel’s security and a focus on reaching a cease-fire agreement. Biden’s discussion with Netanyahu will cover threats from Iran and other groups, and efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict
Harris’s Perspective:
Vice President Harris advocates for a cease-fire deal that includes both ending the war and addressing Palestinian suffering. She expresses concern about civilian casualties and the humanitarian impact of the conflict
Netanyahu’s Perspective:
Prime Minister Netanyahu appreciates Biden’s support and defends Israel’s military actions. He has criticized international criticism and emphasized the need for Israel to achieve “total victory.”
National Broadcasting Company:
Biden and Harris to meet separately with Netanyahu at the White House
Washington Post:
Harris calls for cease-fire and hostage release, after Netanyahu meeting