ALBAWABA - U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris underlined the significance of a ceasefire in Gaza to pro-Palestinian protestors who disrupted her rally with chanting during a campaign event in Phoenix, Arizona.
The demonstrators screamed "Free Palestine," as The Hill reported. Harris said, "I've been clear about this." It's time to mediate a cease-fire and arrange for the exchange of prisoners."
Harris emphasized that she and President Joe Biden are actively attempting to secure the release of prisoners and a truce. She reminded the crowd that the event's main emphasis was the impending election, while also noting the concerns of the pro-Palestinian activists.
Similar demonstrations had occurred earlier in Detroit, when protesters yelled, "Kamala, Kamala, you can't hide," at another event that Harris attended. We refuse to support genocide with our votes." Harris responded by affirming the democratic process and stressing the need of all opinions being heard, but she also asked the audience to keep their attention on the election, saying, "Just say it if you want Donald Trump to win. If not, allow me to talk."
The demonstrations and Harris' remarks coincide with Israel's continuing military operations in Gaza. These operations began on October 7, 2023, in response to a significant offensive by the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military arm of Hamas. Israel stated that the initial onslaught resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 5,132 injuries.
