The Democratic National Convention (DNC) begins today (Monday) in Chicago, a critical turning point for the Democratic Party and its candidates, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. As the party stands behind its new platform, much attention will be paid not only to the usual campaign rhetoric, but also to how the candidates will address the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This is a moment of truth for Harris and Walz: They must prove to their supporters and skeptics alike that their commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering and that they will do everything in their power to end the war without compromising Israel’s interests.
For Israelis and Jews, the stakes couldn’t be higher at this convention. Outside the convention hall, Chicago’s streets are expected to be flooded with pro-Palestinian protesters, many of whom will call for an end to U.S. support for Israel and demand that the Biden-Harris administration take a more critical stance toward the Jewish state. These protests, planned by a coalition of some 200 social justice organizations, are a reminder of the growing divide within the Democratic Party over its approach to Israel.
Pro-Israel voices will also be heard at the congress, albeit in a more subdued form. The Israeli American Council (IAC) will create an installation called “Hostage Square,” a poignant reminder of the Israeli and American citizens still held captive by Hamas.
But the most important developments will play out at the convention, where Harris, Walz and other prominent Democrats will speak. Jewish Americans – indeed, all supporters of Israel – will be listening intently. Will Harris and Walz rise to the occasion, or will they allow the party to drift further into the hands of figures like Bernie Sanders, who has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions?
For Harris, who has often positioned herself as a bridge between different factions of the Democratic Party, this is an opportunity to show that she is not just a placeholder candidate who has taken on Joe Biden’s legacy. She must show that she understands the unique challenges facing Israel and is willing to stand up for the Jewish state, even when it is politically difficult.
Biden has been a staunch supporter of Israel throughout his presidency. Despite significant pressure from within his party to take a harder line on Israel, he has consistently stressed the importance of Israel’s security and its right to defend itself against terrorism. Harris and Walz should look to Biden as a model of how to approach this complex issue with principle and conviction.
The last thing Israel needs is a return to the strained relations it had with the US during the Obama era, when disagreements over settlements and the Iran nuclear deal caused significant tensions. Nor does Israel benefit from Sanders’ rhetoric, which calls for US aid to be contingent on its treatment of the Palestinians. Such approaches only embolden Israel’s enemies and weaken the strategic partnership that has long been a cornerstone of US foreign policy in the Middle East.
Emphasize support for Israel
Instead, Harris and Walz should use this opportunity to clearly express their support for Israel and outline a vision for how they will work to end the current conflict while preserving Israel’s security. They must reassure Israel’s supporters that they understand the existential threat the country faces and are committed to helping Israel meet these challenges.
Critics might claim that Harris and Walz are beholden to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party and are too quick to appease those who see Israel as an aggressor rather than a country fighting for survival. It is up to Harris and Walz to prove these critics wrong. They must show that they are capable of nuanced, principled leadership that recognizes the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the importance of a strong U.S.-Israel alliance.
During the DNC, the eyes of the Jewish world will be on Harris and Walz. This is their chance to show that they are not only committed to ending the conflict in Gaza, but also understand that Israel’s security is non-negotiable.
