Kamala Harris's Adviser Engages with Arab and Muslim Leaders Amid Gaza Conflict
In a significant virtual meeting held on Wednesday, Phil Jordan, adviser to U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, reached out to Arab and Muslim leaders in the United States. This meeting is particularly crucial as Harris's presidential campaign strives to regain support from voters disillusioned by the Biden administration's military backing of Israel amidst ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
During the meeting, Jordan reiterated the administration's commitment to a ceasefire in Gaza and emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts in Lebanon and stability in the occupied West Bank. This comes at a time when President Joe Biden's support among Muslim and Arab voters has waned significantly compared to the 2020 election, where he garnered a majority of their votes.
Activists and community leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction with the current administration's response to the Israeli military actions in Gaza, with some stating that the efforts made by Harris's office are insufficient. Ali Dagher, a prominent Lebanese-American lawyer, remarked, "It's too little, too late," highlighting the urgency for more decisive action from the administration.
Despite some local Muslim rights organizations, such as Emjig, voicing their support for Harris, others have encouraged their members to abstain from supporting her, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiment. Analysts warn that the lack of enthusiasm among these voters could lead to a detrimental impact on Harris's campaign, particularly if they choose to abstain from voting or support third-party candidates.
In her remarks, Harris reaffirmed her commitment to Israel's defense, stating her unwavering support for Biden's military actions against Iranian threats, further complicating her position among voters seeking a more balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
