In a recent report, the National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, has refuted claims of a divide between Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden regarding their support for Palestinians in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war. The White House has reiterated its stance that there is “no daylight” between the President and the Vice President on this matter.
The issue was brought up during a daily White House press briefing, where Peter Doocy from Fox News asked John Kirby about a Politico report suggesting that Harris has been urging Biden to show more concern for Palestinian casualties. Kirby dismissed the report, stating that the White House has already refuted the “basic premise” of the story, emphasizing that the Vice President is part of the team and her role is to provide advice and counsel to the President.
According to Politico’s report, Harris has been advocating for a “day after” plan for when the fighting in Gaza ceases and has called for the U.S. to be “tougher” on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Harris believes in being more forceful in seeking a long-term peace and a two-state solution. These claims were made by three unnamed sources cited in the report.
In response to the story, Harris’ press secretary, Kristen Allen, emphasized that there is no difference of opinion between the President and the Vice President. The unified message from the White House is that Israel has the right and responsibility to defend itself, humanitarian aid must be allowed into Gaza, innocent Palestinians should be protected, and the U.S. remains committed to a two-state solution.
Kirby further emphasized that the entire leadership team in the Biden administration shares the goal of minimizing civilian casualties and wants to see Israel adopt more surgical and precise strikes against Hamas. He expressed the President’s confidence in Vice President Harris, describing her as a real teammate and significant leader who understands the foreign policy direction of the administration.
While the Politico report suggested a discord between Harris and Biden, the White House has firmly denied any disagreement, highlighting the Vice President’s essential role in providing advice and counsel on various issues. The administration remains committed to supporting Israel’s right to defend itself while advocating for the protection of innocent Palestinians and working towards a long-term peace and a two-state solution.
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