Kamala Harris to Miss Netanyahu Congressional Address Amidst Campaign Commitments

Vice President Kamala Harris will not preside over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress on Wednesday. Instead, Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) will oversee the event. This marks a significant moment as Netanyahu seeks to solidify U.S. support amidst ongoing tensions in Gaza.

Kamala Harris’s Absence and Campaign Priorities

Typically, the Vice President presides over joint addresses. However, Kamala Harris will be absent due to her recent presidential campaign launch, following President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race. Despite her absence at the address, Kamala Harris is expected to meet with Netanyahu separately during his visit.

Congressional dynamics and boycotts

Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) declined the invitation to preside over the address, leaving Senator Cardin to step in. Murray’s office did not specify the reasons for her decision or her plans regarding the event. Notably, several liberal lawmakers are anticipated to boycott Netanyahu’s address in protest.

Netanyahu’s Objectives and U.S.-Israel Relations

Netanyahu’s visit aims to bolster Israel’s ties with the U.S. as he navigates the complexities of seeking a ceasefire in Gaza. Palestinian health officials report over 39,000 casualties due to the ongoing conflict following Hamas’ attacks on October 7. Netanyahu emphasizes the enduring alliance between Israel and the U.S., regardless of future political changes.

Biden’s Role and Prospective Meetings

Netanyahu plans to thank President Biden for his support during the war. Although a meeting is planned, it remains uncertain due to Biden’s recovery from COVID-19. Additionally, there are discussions about Netanyahu potentially meeting with former President Donald Trump.

Strategic Implications and Political Maneuvering

Nimrod Goren from the Middle East Institute suggests Netanyahu may use his visit to signal a transition period before new U.S. leadership, while Gershon Baskin, a Middle East peace process advisor, suggests Netanyahu may not prioritize Biden.

Kamala Harris’s Stance on the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Harris has shown a willingness to criticize Netanyahu and empathize with Palestinian civilians, contrasting with Biden’s approach. This dynamic adds significance to her meeting with Netanyahu, highlighting her influence and potential impact on future U.S.-Israel relations.

Potential Meeting with Donald Trump and Political Strength

A meeting with Donald Trump would signal Netanyahu’s ability to reset U.S.-Israel relations under possible Republican leadership. As of Monday, no finalized plans for this meeting existed, though Tuesday appeared feasible for Donald Trump.

Hostage Crisis and International Criticism

Netanyahu met with the families of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, reiterating Israel’s commitment to their return. The recent deaths of hostages Yagev Buchshtab and Alex Dancyg in captivity have intensified pressure on Netanyahu. Concurrently, rights groups and the International Court of Justice criticize Israel’s actions in Palestinian territories.

Conclusion

Netanyahu’s visit, overshadowed by ongoing conflicts and political maneuvering, seeks to reaffirm Israel’s alliance with the U.S. amidst calls for a ceasefire and international scrutiny. The absence of Vice President Kamala Harris at the congressional address underscores her campaign priorities while signaling potential shifts in U.S. policy toward Israel.