Vice President Harris Reiterates U.S. Commitment to Finding Peaceful Resolution to Israel-Gaza Conflict

Vice President Kamala Harris has made it clear that the United States has no intention of sending combat troops into Israel or Gaza, despite the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. In an interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes” broadcast Sunday, Harris said the U.S. is helping its ally Israel by providing guidance and equipment but is not instructing the country on how to move forward.

The Vice President also noted that she is involved in the administration’s efforts on the war in Ukraine, as well as countless intractable problems — including gun violence — at home. Harris reiterated the administration’s position that Israel has a right to defend itself following the brutal attack the Hamas militant group launched on Oct. 7, killing several people.

Israel has begun what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls the second stage of the war, by expanding its military ground operations in Gaza. The Biden administration is trying to balance Israel’s need to retaliate against Hamas with the urgent need to get relief to the Palestinian people.

Vice President Harris said the U.S. is committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and is working with its allies and partners to bring an end to the violence. She added that the U.S. is providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and is working to ensure that the people of Gaza have access to food, water, and medical supplies.

The Vice President concluded by saying that the U.S. will continue to work with its partners in the region to bring an end to the violence and to ensure that the people of Israel and Palestine can live in peace and security.