**Kamala Harris Avoids Clear Stance on Netanyahu Amid US-Israel Tensions**

Vice President Kamala Harris recently sidestepped a direct question about whether she views Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "real, close ally." Instead, Harris emphasized the enduring alliance between the American and Israeli people. Speaking on CBS' "60 Minutes," Harris highlighted the importance of this bilateral relationship.

Since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, when 1,200 Israelis were killed in a Hamas attack, the Harris-Biden administration has frequently clashed with Netanyahu over his government's response. As Harris and President Joe Biden strive to prevent a broader and more extended conflict, they have opposed certain Israeli military actions in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, while also advocating for a ceasefire.

In a meeting with Netanyahu days after Biden announced he wouldn't seek re-election in 2024, Harris stressed the significance of the Palestinian plight, insisting, "We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering - and I will not be silent." This meeting came against a backdrop of Biden's ongoing confrontations with Netanyahu, including his caution against an Israeli invasion of the southern Gazan city of Rafah without an adequate civilian protection plan.

Addressing the United Nations last month, Biden condemned the suffering of civilians in Gaza, describing it as "hell," and expressed uncertainty about Netanyahu's potential political motives during a recent White House briefing. Harris, mirroring Biden’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, has also faced pressure from progressive circles.

When asked if Netanyahu heeds US advice and whether Washington retains influence over Israel, Harris pointed to various movements by Israel as partly resulting from US advocacy. She reiterated calls for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The friction between US leaders and Netanyahu is not new. The past three American presidents have all encountered difficulties with him. Barack Obama was overheard on a hot mic making critical comments about Netanyahu, and Donald Trump accused Netanyahu of withdrawing support for a strike on Iranian General Qasem Soleimani at the last minute.

Harris' full interview with "60 Minutes" is set to air as part of an election special. The program attempted to arrange a similar interview with Trump, but no agreement was reached.