In a notable diplomatic move, Vice President Kamala Harris has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas, amid escalating conflict in Gaza.

Harris has initiated diplomatic talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to push for a ceasefire agreement with Hamas in Gaza, though critics suggest she has remained silent on the Palestinian group's own failings and offenses, as Fox News reports.

Now the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Harris made remarks urging Netanyahu to agree to a cease-fire during a meeting described as "frank and constructive." These discussions took place on Thursday, setting the stage for intense diplomatic engagements.

Trump Criticizes Harris' Approach to Israel

The day after Harris' meeting with Netanyahu, former President Donald Trump voiced strong criticism of Harris' remarks. During a public appearance with Netanyahu on Friday, Trump called Harris' comments disrespectful to Israel, expressing confusion over her support among Jewish voters.

Trump stated, "I think her remarks were disrespectful. They weren't very nice pertaining to Israel. I actually don't know how a person who's Jewish can vote for her, but that's up to them. But she was certainly disrespectful to Israel, in my opinion."

Harris Outlines Two-Phase Cease-Fire Proposal

The cease-fire proposal discussed by Harris and Netanyahu involves two phases: initially, a full cease-fire followed by the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza's population centers.

The second phase would include a total military withdrawal. Harris has been vocal about her hopes for progress in these negotiations but did not mention if similar pressure was being applied to Hamas.

During her speech, Harris condemned Hamas, labeling it a "brutal terrorist organization," yet she emphasized the need to reach a ceasefire agreement to end the war. She remarked, "Hamas has committed horrific acts, but [we need to] get the deal done so we can get a ceasefire to end the war."

Harris Advocates for a Balanced Ceasefire

Harris highlighted the dual importance of securing Israel and addressing the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians in Gaza.

She stressed, "Israel has a right to defend itself, and how it does so matters. It is time for this war to end. And end in a way that Israel is secure, all the hostages are released, the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can exercise their right to freedom, dignity and self-determination."

"As I just told Prime Minister Netanyahu, it is time to get this deal done. So to everyone who has been calling for a ceasefire, and to everyone who yearns for peace, I see you, and I hear you," added Harris in her comments on the urgency of reaching a resolution.

Responses to Harris' Diplomatic Efforts

An aide to Harris defended the vice president's approach, aligning it with President Biden's position.

The aide clarified, "I don’t know what they’re talking about. President Biden and Vice President Harris delivered the same message in their private meetings with Prime Minister Netanyahu: It’s time to get the ceasefire and hostage deal done."

This aide also mentioned that Harris' public comments mirrored her past statements on the conflict, where she consistently expressed strong support for Israel while addressing civilian casualties and the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Israeli Official Questions Impact of Harris' Remarks

An Israeli official suggested that Harris' emphasis on civilian casualties might hinder the advancement towards a ceasefire. The delicate nature of these discussions highlights the complexities involved in negotiating peace in such volatile situations.

In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris has been actively involved in recent days in pressing for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, advocating for a solution that addresses both the security of Israel and the rights and suffering of Palestinians.

Her discussions with Netanyahu, coupled with her public and private statements, underscore what supporters say a comprehensive diplomatic effort aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.

While her direct communications with Hamas are not detailed, her focus remains on achieving peace through a structured ceasefire agreement.