Vice President Kamala Harris made a strong appeal on Sunday for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, while also urging Israel to ramp up aid to alleviate what she described as “inhumane” conditions and a “humanitarian catastrophe” among the Palestinian population.
Harris’s remarks marked one of the most forceful calls by a senior U.S. government official for Israel to address the situation in Gaza.
Speaking at an event in Selma, Alabama, commemorating the anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” when state troopers attacked peaceful protesters, the vice president called on Hamas to accept a deal aimed at releasing hostages, which could initiate a six-week ceasefire and facilitate more aid delivery.
“People in Gaza are facing dire circumstances. The conditions are unacceptable, and our shared humanity demands action,” Harris asserted. “The Israeli government must take decisive steps to increase the flow of aid. There can be no excuses.”
However, Israel reportedly boycotted ceasefire negotiations in Cairo on Sunday after Hamas refused to provide a comprehensive list of hostages still alive, according to Israeli media.
“Hamas claims to desire a ceasefire. Well, there is a proposal on the table. And as we’ve stated, Hamas must agree to it,” Harris emphasized. “Let’s secure a ceasefire. Let’s reunite hostages with their families. And let’s provide immediate assistance to the people of Gaza.”
