Biden and Harris in High-Stakes Talks with Netanyahu on Gaza Conflict

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu separately to discuss the Gaza conflict. Biden's decision not to seek reelection spotlights Harris's role and potential policy shifts. The meetings aim to negotiate a ceasefire-for-hostages deal amid strained U.S.-Israel relations.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will hold separate high-profile meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to discuss winding down the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Biden, stepping aside from the presidential race under Democratic pressure, will meet Netanyahu at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT) at the White House. This marks their first in-person meeting since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, a visit during which Biden pledged American support to Netanyahu. Harris, positioned to become the Democratic presidential nominee, will meet Netanyahu later in the afternoon in her ceremonial office.

The outcome is eagerly awaited for potential shifts in U.S. policy towards Israel if Harris becomes President. Biden and Netanyahu are also scheduled to meet with families of American hostages held by Hamas, amid strained relations due to Israel's actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 39,000 deaths and a humanitarian crisis. The U.S., a major arms supplier to Israel, has protected it from critical UN votes. Netanyahu's visit comes amidst Biden's decision not to seek reelection and Harris's competitive poll standings with Donald Trump. Both leaders aim for a ceasefire, with Harris aligning yet striking a tougher tone.

The White House is under heavy security for these discussions, which follow Netanyahu's defiant Congress speech and precede his Florida meeting with Trump. The Gaza conflict has splintered the Democratic Party. Biden's call for party unity to defeat Trump was central to his recent Oval Office speech announcing his support for Harris in 2024.