The Biden administration's support for Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza has created divisions among left-leaning voters in the United States, particularly among Arab Americans. Some constituents express that this stance has negatively impacted their perception of Vice President Kamala Harris's candidacy.
In Gaza, many residents share frustration over the U.S. decision to continue supplying weapons to Israel amid widespread destruction and loss of life. Interviews conducted in the region reveal skepticism regarding the potential for either Ms. Harris or former President Donald Trump to improve their circumstances.
Abdul Kareem al-Kahlout, a 35-year-old math teacher in Deir al Balah, expressed concern that both candidates may perpetuate the ongoing conflict in Gaza, stating, “I am fearful that both candidates are for the same thing, which is no end in sight for the war in Gaza.”
The conflict escalated following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which Israeli authorities claim resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths in Israel. In retaliation, Israeli military actions in Gaza have reportedly killed over 43,000 people, including Hamas fighters, according to local sources. The war has exacerbated humanitarian conditions, pushing the population towards famine and devastation.
Many Gazans, facing dire living conditions with limited access to electricity, food, and medical supplies, prioritize survival over engagement with American political affairs. Mohammed Owaida, a 33-year-old resident from Khan Younis, remarked, “We only need one thing: for this war to come to an end. We are exhausted. Whoever wins and can do that, I support.”
Polls indicate that Israelis predominantly view Mr. Trump as the candidate most aligned with their national interests, attributing this perception to the benefits they experienced during his presidency. Conversely, many Israelis anticipate that a Harris administration would maintain continuity but potentially increase criticism of Israeli policies towards Palestinians.
During his presidency, Mr. Trump adopted strong pro-Israel positions, including a controversial peace plan favoring Israeli interests. He has also urged Israel to de-escalate the conflict. Meanwhile, Ms. Harris has aligned with President Biden’s approach, supporting Israel’s right to self-defense while advocating for a resolution to the conflict and the release of hostages in Gaza.
Both Israelis and Gazans generally agree that U.S. relations with Israel are unlikely to shift significantly, regardless of the election outcome. Lina Rabah, a 36-year-old mother from Gaza, expressed disappointment in how American leaders perceive the people of Gaza, stating, “All I want is for the United States to see us as humans, not just as numbers in a long conflict.”
Rima Swaisi, a journalist from Gaza City, expressed a belief that Ms. Harris might be more inclined to pursue peace than Mr. Trump. She referred to Ms. Harris as the “less worse” option, highlighting her discontent with Mr. Trump’s past actions, including the relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem.
Despite this, some Gazans feel that the election does not present a viable option for Palestinians. Hanin Ashour, a 33-year-old woman who has lost four family members in the conflict, voiced her disillusionment with U.S. policies, stating her refusal to accept humanitarian aid from American organizations. She articulated her skepticism about relying on American politicians, saying, “So what — am I supposed to wait to hear from U.S. presidents who support Israel with missiles? How am I supposed to listen to them?”