Tensions Flare as Netanyahu Expresses Displeasure Over Harris' Remarks on Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly voiced frustration with Vice President Kamala Harris' comments on the Gaza conflict, alleging they could jeopardize negotiations for a hostage deal and cease-fire.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Vice President Kamala Harris' remarks on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to sources close to the matter. The reported diplomatic rift emerged following Netanyahu's meetings with President Biden and Harris in Washington, D.C., before his subsequent meeting with former President Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

Sources within the Israeli government claim that Netanyahu was particularly irked by Harris' focus on civilian casualties and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. They argue that such statements could undermine Israel's ability to resume military operations after a cease-fire is implemented.

Tensions Flare as Netanyahu Expresses Displeasure Over Harris' Remarks on Gaza

According to these sources, Netanyahu believes that Harris' public criticism of Israel could give the Hamas militant group the impression of a rift between the U.S. and Israel, potentially hindering efforts to secure a hostage deal and cease-fire.

One Israeli official told Axios that Harris' public statement was "much more critical than what she told Netanyahu in the meeting." However, an aide for Harris flatly denied these claims, stating that the Vice President's private and public remarks were consistent.

Tensions Flare as Netanyahu Expresses Displeasure Over Harris' Remarks on Gaza

"President Biden and Vice President Harris delivered the same message in their private meetings to Prime Minister Netanyahu: it's time to get the cease-fire and hostage deal done," an aide for Harris said. "And this is what the Vice President said publicly as well."

In her remarks, Harris emphasized America's unwavering support for Israel's right to self-defense but also expressed concern about the human toll of the conflict. She stated that it was time for the war to end and that the "hostages are released, the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can exercise their right to freedom, dignity and self-determination."

Tensions Flare as Netanyahu Expresses Displeasure Over Harris' Remarks on Gaza

She also referenced the existence of a cease-fire and hostage deal proposal, urging Netanyahu to move forward with it.

Former Trump national security aide John Ullyot interpreted Harris' remarks as a sign of her growing influence within the Biden administration. "It is clear that what happened with Kamala Harris is that number one, she has her hand now firmly on the tiller. There is no question — she was the only one who made a [on-camera] statement," Ullyot said.

Tensions Flare as Netanyahu Expresses Displeasure Over Harris' Remarks on Gaza

The reported tensions between Netanyahu and Harris underscore the complexities of the ongoing Gaza conflict and the challenges faced by both Israel and the Biden administration in navigating the diplomatic landscape.