The Democratic National Convention has largely sidestepped the contentious issue of U.S. support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, leaving pro-Palestinian delegates frustrated with presidential candidate Kamala Harris.
Harris is anticipated to call for an end to the Gaza conflict and the release of Israeli hostages in her acceptance speech on Thursday. However, she will not address U.S. arms sales to Israel, according to sources.
Pro-Palestinian delegates had sought a prime-time slot to discuss the ongoing violence in Gaza, where the Israeli assault, supported by U.S. aid, has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread devastation. The convention’s decision to exclude a Palestinian speaker has sparked protests, with demonstrators voicing their concerns about U.S. involvement and the lack of representation.
Despite the protests, the campaign has not clarified why a Palestinian speaker was not included. Protests have intensified each day in Chicago, the site of the convention, with thousands rallying against the DNC’s stance and calling for a ceasefire and an arms embargo on Israel. Some protesters indicated their voting decisions would hinge on Harris’s stance on Gaza and arms sales.
The DNC has faced criticism from various groups, including the United Auto Workers union and the Movement for Black Lives, who support the demonstrators. Delegates who have protested feel that their voices are being ignored, and there are concerns that the party’s handling of the issue could impact its success in key battleground states.
As Harris prepares for her speech, campaign donors and activists alike are urging a more explicit stance on the conflict to prevent further backlash and campus protests in the coming weeks.
