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Jerusalem, July 28, 2024 – In a fiery speech at the Knesset plenum on Sunday, MK Yisrael Eichler from the United Torah Judaism party criticized U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for the presidency, for her recent remarks concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict and hostage negotiations. Eichler’s comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate over the role of international influence in the conflict.
“Now that we see that in America, there are elements that are increasingly suicidal, going with the progress that leads to such an extent that whoever is running for vice president, the vice president who is running for the presidency of the United States,” Eichler stated, addressing the Knesset speaker.
He further elaborated on his concerns, saying, “If you heard, Mr. Speaker, what she said and how she spoke, it is a global danger because [Russian President Vladimir] Putin hears this. [Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali] Khameini hears this.” Eichler underscored the gravity of the situation by adding, “We are in a situation where, as they say, only His Holiness can help us.”
Eichler’s remarks follow Vice President Harris’s comments on the Israel-Hamas war and the ongoing negotiations for a hostage deal. On Friday, a senior Israeli official expressed concerns that Harris’s statements might complicate efforts to secure a deal. “We hope that it won’t make it harder to achieve a hostage deal because it gives the appearance of daylight between Israel and the United States,” the official said.
Harris’s surprise statement, issued shortly after her hour-long meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, outlined terms regarding phase two of a possible agreement between Israel and Hamas that have not yet been agreed upon. The statement, also posted on X (formerly Twitter), seemed to have taken Israeli officials aback.
The context of Harris’s remarks and their potential impact on the delicate negotiations with Hamas have raised alarm within Israeli political circles. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen numerous ceasefire attempts and hostage exchanges, with international players often stepping in to mediate. Harris’s comments, interpreted by some as a deviation from the previously coordinated U.S.-Israel stance, have sparked a fresh wave of uncertainty.
Eichler’s critique highlights the sensitivity of international diplomacy in the Israel-Hamas conflict, where statements from key global leaders can significantly influence the course of negotiations. His condemnation of Harris’s comments reflects broader concerns within Israel about maintaining strong and consistent support from its allies, particularly the United States.
As the situation develops, the Israeli government continues to navigate the complexities of the conflict and the critical role of international allies in securing peace and stability. Eichler’s remarks underscore the importance of careful and considered diplomacy in these high-stakes negotiations.