In a campaign event held in Phoenix, Vice President Kamala Harris voiced her concern over the rising number of civilian casualties in Gaza following Israel's recent airstrike on a school building housing Hamas operatives and refugees. Stressing the importance of minimizing civilian casualties, Harris acknowledged the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) responsibility in this regard, especially as the Hamas-run health ministry estimates the death toll nearing 40,000.

Expressing her dismay at the situation, Harris remarked, "Far too many civilians have been killed yet again," in reference to the IDF airstrike on the Gaza City school. However, her comments triggered outrage among supporters of Israel, who accused her of appeasing a pro-Hamas undercurrent within her party. Senator Marsha Blackburn went as far as labeling Harris as a "Hamas sympathizer," insinuating that she supported the relentless attacks on the Jewish people by Hamas terrorists.

Despite the controversy, Harris affirmed Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, but her condemnation of the airstrike reveals growing tensions between the White House and Jerusalem regarding the conflict in Gaza. Reports from Gaza health officials indicate that at least 90 people, including women and children, were killed in the IDF's missile strike on the Tabeen school, which Israel claimed was harboring Hamas militants and senior commanders. Notably, Gaza officials do not distinguish between terrorists and civilians when reporting casualties.

The IDF dismissed claims of civilian casualties as "exaggerated," estimating that approximately 20 terrorists were killed in the strike. While the exact number of civilian casualties remains undisclosed, the IDF maintains that it took necessary precautions to minimize harm to non-combatants, highlighting the challenge of combating Hamas militants hiding in schools.

Disturbingly, almost 85% of schools in Gaza have been directly hit or damaged as of July due to Hamas' use of these facilities as hiding spots, with the IDF launching airstrikes in response. This dire situation has drawn the attention of US officials who grapple with the delicate task of supporting Israel while urging the IDF to mitigate civilian casualties amidst Hamas' tactics.

Vice President Harris found herself at the center of the debate when leaders of the Uncommitted National Movement claimed that she expressed openness to meet with them and discuss a potential arms embargo against Israel. However, her National Security Advisor, Phil Gordon, clarified that Harris does not support such an embargo but remains committed to protecting civilians in Gaza and upholding international humanitarian law.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to raise concerns globally, with the need to address civilian casualties and find a lasting resolution becoming increasingly imperative to ensure the safety and stability of the region.