VP Harris to meet with Gantz on undeclared US visit
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Recent indications of the US leaning towards Gantz have sparked criticism among Netanyahu's extremist cabinet members.
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Former Israeli Defense Security Benny Gantz, second left, meets with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in 'Tel Aviv', occupied Palestine, February 8, 2024. (AP)
US Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to meet with "Israel's" former military chief and main rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Benny Gantz, a meeting which coincides with both Biden's presidential campaign and increasing tensions within the Israeli regime.
Gantz is also due to hold talks with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Recent indications of the US leaning towards Gantz have sparked criticism among Netanyahu's extremist cabinet members.
Israeli news reports stated that "Netanyahu was said to have been unaware of the visit until Gantz, who leads the National Unity party, called him on Friday to let the prime minister know of his plans and to discuss what messages to convey to the Americans."
A source close to Netanyahu said the premier "made it clear to Minister Gantz that the state of 'Israel' only has one prime minister," the report added, citing sources.
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Harris' Selma Speech
At an event in Selma, Alabama, on Sunday, Harris delivered a speech in which she criticized Israeli aid efforts, stating: "given the immense scale of suffering in Gaza, there must be an immediate ceasefire."
"The Israeli government must do more to significantly increase the flow of aid. No excuses," Harris said.
She pointed out that those seeking aid in Gaza have been faced with gunfire and chaos failing to mention the Israeli killers.
She further urged the Israeli regime to take immediate action to restore basic services and order in Gaza and stressed the urgent need for an "immediate ceasefire."
While stressing the importance of eliminating the Palestinian resistance for the US, Harris reiterated that there is a deal on the table and urged the resistance to agree to it even though it does not entail a permanent ceasefire.
She suggested the implementation of a six-week ceasefire only to facilitate the release of Israeli captives and allegedly allow for a significant influx of aid into the region.
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The White House considers that Harris has been more vocal in expressing stronger statement of the Israeli war on Gaza.
It said that Harris's meeting with Gantz was "part of our continued efforts to engage with a wide range of Israeli officials on the war in Gaza and planning for the day after."
They would "discuss the urgency of securing a hostage deal, which would allow for a temporary ceasefire, and the need to significantly expand and sustain aid flows into Gaza, given the dire humanitarian situation," a statement read.
