Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff marked the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel by planting a memorial tree at their Naval Observatory residence. The planting of a pomegranate tree, symbolizing hope and righteousness in Judaism, was a traditional act carried out by second families at the vice president’s residence. The escalating violence in the Middle East has posed challenges for Harris, who has been urged by Arab American advocates to distance herself from President Joe Biden’s Israel policy. Despite this, Harris has maintained that Israel has a right to defend itself while also acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Harris has previously addressed the violence that occurred on October 7, hosting an event at the White House focused on the Israel-Hamas war as part of an effort to raise awareness of conflict-related sexual violence. In reflection of the anniversary, Harris and Emhoff, who is Jewish, are expected to deliver remarks reaffirming their commitment to the security of Israel and the Jewish people. Emhoff will also attend an October 7 commemoration in Washington, DC, where he will recite a prayer. The attacks on October 7, 2023 resulted in over 1,200 casualties in Israel, with thousands more held hostage by Hamas. The subsequent war in Gaza has led to the deaths of over 40,000 Palestinians and a dire humanitarian crisis.
Harris has been vocal about the situation in Gaza, stating that people in the region are suffering inhumane conditions and facing starvation. In an upcoming interview on “60 Minutes,” Harris discusses the US influence on Israeli decision-making and the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in the region. While she acknowledges the challenges in communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Harris asserts that the US is continuing to advocate for humanitarian aid, the release of hostages, and a ceasefire in the region. Despite criticism from Arab American advocates regarding her response to recent escalations in Lebanon, Harris has reiterated her commitment to working towards ending the war in Gaza.
During a meeting in Michigan with Arab American advocates, Harris expressed her desire for the war to end and committed to doing all she can to work towards a resolution. The meeting, which was originally scheduled for 10 minutes, extended to 20 minutes as discussions continued. In response to disruptions at campaign rallies by pro-Palestinian protesters, Harris has emphasized the administration’s focus on negotiating a ceasefire deal. As the anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel was commemorated, Harris and Emhoff reaffirmed their dedication to addressing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and working towards peace and stability in the region.
