Scrutiny of Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Capabilities Intensifies as She Eyes the Presidency

Vice President Kamala Harris' ability to handle foreign policy issues has come under renewed examination as she emerges as a potential challenger to former President Donald Trump in the 2024 White House race. Experts question whether she possesses the necessary experience and understanding to effectively counter adversaries and protect American interests abroad.

With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, Vice President Kamala Harris' foreign policy capabilities have become a major talking point among political analysts. As the most likely Democratic challenger to former President Donald Trump, her ability to handle international affairs has come under intense scrutiny.

In the realm of US foreign policy, Harris has largely played a supporting role to President Biden. However, her handling of the immigration crisis at the southern border and her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have drawn criticism from Republicans. During her trip to Guatemala and Honduras, Harris failed to stem the flow of migrants crossing the US-Mexico border, leading to accusations of ineffectiveness.

Scrutiny of Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Capabilities Intensifies as She Eyes the Presidency

Despite her limited experience in foreign affairs, top officials in the Biden administration, such as Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have expressed confidence in Harris' abilities. They point to her involvement in major geopolitical issues like the war in Ukraine, where she has reiterated support for Ukraine and condemned Russia. Harris has also traveled extensively to Europe, renewing US commitment to NATO and Ukraine.

However, her position on Israel has raised concerns among Republicans, who accuse her of being overly sympathetic to Hamas and pro-Palestinian constituents. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has criticized Harris for allegedly "implicitly messaging Hamas leadership." In contrast, Blinken has defended Harris' stance on the Middle East, emphasizing her commitment to Israel's security while expressing serious concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Scrutiny of Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Capabilities Intensifies as She Eyes the Presidency

Harris' approach to Iran, the primary adversary in the Middle East, is not expected to diverge significantly from Biden's. She has also traveled to Africa, Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia, to strengthen ties and address concerns about food insecurity.

In Asia, Harris has played a vital role in defense meetings, according to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. She has visited several Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, focusing on issues such as climate change, maritime security, and countering China's influence.

Scrutiny of Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Capabilities Intensifies as She Eyes the Presidency

Harris has adopted a tough stance on China, accusing Beijing of "bullying" in the South China Sea. However, experts like Robert Greenway of the Heritage Foundation do not anticipate a more assertive approach towards China under her presidency. Greenway emphasizes China's growing military expansion and aggressive tactics, highlighting the potential dangers that would persist regardless of who held office.

Despite her supporters' confidence, Harris' performance during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, which resulted in the death of 13 US soldiers, could prove to be a liability on the campaign trail. While Biden has faced the brunt of the criticism, Harris' admission that she was the last person in the room with the president before the decision to withdraw could spell trouble for her.

Scrutiny of Kamala Harris' Foreign Policy Capabilities Intensifies as She Eyes the Presidency

Overall, Harris' foreign policy experience and judgment will be thoroughly examined during the 2024 election cycle. Her ability to handle major geopolitical issues, including US-China relations, the war in Ukraine, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, will be key factors in determining her suitability for the presidency.