Netanyahu's White House Visit with Biden and Harris: A Pivotal Moment for US-Israel Ties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the White House on Thursday to discuss the ongoing Gaza conflict with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This visit marks Netanyahu's first since 2020, during former President Donald Trump's tenure. The meeting comes amid increasing pressure to resolve the nine-month war in Gaza, which has resulted in over 39,000 deaths.

Biden welcomed Netanyahu in the Oval Office, where the Israeli leader expressed gratitude for Biden's service. Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Netanyahu said, "From a proud Jewish Zionist to a proud Irish American Zionist, I want to thank you for 50 years of public service and 50 years of support for the state of Israel." Biden responded by thanking Netanyahu and joking about his first meeting with an Israeli prime minister, Golda Meir, in 1973 when he was newly elected to the Senate.

Focus on Hostage Negotiations

Biden aimed to use the meeting to push for a U.S.-backed proposal to release remaining hostages in Gaza over three phases. This achievement could significantly bolster his legacy and benefit Harris in her bid to succeed him. White House officials indicated that negotiations are nearing completion but still face unresolved issues. Following their discussions, Biden and Netanyahu planned to meet with families of American hostages.

Harris is also set to meet separately with Netanyahu. She aims to demonstrate her capability as a potential commander-in-chief amidst scrutiny from both political leftists and Republicans. A senior administration official stated, "There is no daylight between the president and vice president on Israel." Harris last engaged one-on-one with Netanyahu in March 2021 but has participated in over 20 calls between Biden and Netanyahu.

Netanyahu's Political Challenges

Netanyahu faces significant pressure from hostage families demanding a cease-fire and far-right coalition members opposing any deal that might prevent Israeli forces from eliminating Hamas. In a fiery address before Congress on Wednesday, Netanyahu defended Israel's actions during the war and criticized accusations of war crimes by the International Criminal Court. He emphasized that Israel's fight against Iran-backed Hamas protects shared interests in the Middle East.

During his speech, Netanyahu praised Biden for his support following the October 7 attack on Israel but also highlighted actions taken by Trump that benefited Israel. These included recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Netanyahu is scheduled to meet Trump in Florida on Friday.

Protests and Security Measures

The Secret Service increased security at the White House ahead of Netanyahu's visit, erecting additional fencing and barriers. Protesters gathered near the White House chanting "Arrest Netanyahu" and displaying an effigy of him with blood-stained hands. A small group of counter-protesters wore Israeli flags around their shoulders.

Harris condemned pro-Hamas graffiti and rhetoric near the U.S. Capitol, stating, "Pro-Hamas graffiti and rhetoric is abhorrent and we must not tolerate it in our nation." She also condemned the burning of an American flag at Union Station, calling it a desecration of a symbol representing America's highest ideals.

Political Reactions

Trump and his Republican allies criticized Harris for missing Netanyahu's address to Congress due to events in Indiana and Texas. Iowa Senator Joni Ernst called her absence a "disgrace," while White House officials attributed it solely to scheduling conflicts. Harris has consistently expressed strong support for Israel throughout her career.

Harris' first overseas trip as a senator was to Israel in early 2017. One of her initial acts in office was introducing a resolution opposing a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning Israel. She has personal ties to Israel through her husband, who is Jewish, and connections with pro-Israel groups like AIPAC and J Street.

Throughout the conflict, Harris has largely aligned with Biden but has occasionally led tougher rhetoric on Israel. In March, she used a high-profile address in Selma, Alabama, to decry Palestinian suffering and urge Israel to alleviate civilian conditions in Gaza.