Kamala Harris Pledges to End Gaza Conflict if Elected, Appeals to Voters on Middle East Policy
As Election Day nears, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has pledged to bring an end to the Gaza conflict if elected president, underscoring her commitment to both Israel’s security and humanitarian relief for Palestinians. Speaking in the swing state of Michigan, Harris highlighted her intent to address the devastation in Gaza, a message aimed at balancing support from Jewish and Arab-American voters. This promise comes amid a closely contested race with Donald Trump, as Harris navigates complex voter concerns in a critical election.
U.S. Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris promised on Sunday to work to end the war in Gaza if elected, addressing the escalating conflict just two days before Election Day. Speaking at a rally in Michigan, a key swing state, Harris expressed her commitment to both Israel’s security and peace efforts in Gaza, a balance she hopes will resonate with both Jewish and Arab-American voters.
Harris emphasized her dedication to ensuring Israel’s "self-defense" while also recognizing the devastation in Gaza and Lebanon. “This year has been difficult given the scale of death and destruction in Gaza and the civilian casualties and displacement in Lebanon,” she stated. “As president, I will do everything in my power to end the war in Gaza, bring home the hostages, and ensure the Palestinian people realize their right to dignity, freedom, security, and self-determination.” Harris’s remarks come as she faces a tight race with Republican opponent Donald Trump, with recent polling showing them nearly tied.
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In Michigan, where the Arab-American community holds significant political influence, Harris has tried to appeal to both Jewish and Arab voters. However, some political analysts, like Foreign Policy’s Emma Ashford, argue that the Harris campaign’s approach could be alienating Arab voters. Harris’s recent campaign appearance with former Vice President Liz Cheney, a strong Iraq War proponent, and former President Bill Clinton, who spoke of Israel’s long history in the region, has drawn criticism from some voters for perceived insensitivity toward Arab concerns.
Michigan’s 15 Electoral College votes could be decisive in the November 5 election, with Harris needing strong support in this swing state along with others like Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Georgia to secure a victory. This election will determine not only the presidency but also key Congressional and local races, with both sides working intensively to secure voter support across the nation.