In a recent interview with CBS News’ “60 Minutes,” Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the United States’ backing for a ceasefire in Gaza, describing ongoing diplomatic discussions with Israel as “an ongoing matter.” When asked if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a “true close ally,” Harris opted not to answer the question directly. Instead, she suggested focusing on the strength of the alliance between the U.S. and the people of Israel, affirming, “The answer would be yes.”
Harris also reiterated the U.S. commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself against threats from Iran and its allied militant groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah. “The diplomatic work we engage in with Israeli leadership is based on our principles and is unceasing,” she noted, underscoring that the U.S. will continue to exert pressure on both Israeli and Arab leaders.
While the U.S. government occasionally criticizes Israel for civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict, these statements are primarily rhetorical and do not indicate any significant policy shifts. Washington has also dismissed calls from anti-war activists for a weapons ban, showing little interest in pressuring its allies for such measures.
On October 6, French President Emmanuel Macron urged Netanyahu, stating, “The time for a ceasefire has come.” Macron pointed out that supplying weapons and prolonging the Gaza conflict would not achieve the security that Israelis and the broader region seek. He stated, “We must make decisive efforts immediately to formulate the political solution that Israel and the Middle East desperately need.”
While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, Macron called for an end to attacks on the nation. In an interview with French radio on October 5, he called on global powers to cease arms supplies to Israel, expressing concern that Lebanese civilians could endure a fate similar to that of Palestinians. He cautioned against allowing Lebanon to “become a new Gaza,” insisting that “the people of Lebanon cannot become victims.”
In response, Netanyahu’s office stated that the Prime Minister assured Macron that “Israel’s allies will support its actions against Hezbollah, Hamas, and their primary backers,” rejecting any measures that could bolster what he termed as Iran’s “evil axis.”
During a summit of French-speaking nations on October 5, Macron announced a unanimous call from 88 countries to end hostilities in Lebanon to de-escalate regional tensions. However, Netanyahu dismissed the French proposal, criticizing the call for an arms embargo as “shameful” in direct remarks to Macron.
“I want to tell you all, regardless of their support, Israel will prevail,” Netanyahu declared.
