Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff will commemorate the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel by planting a memorial tree at their Naval Observatory residence. The tradition of planting trees on the vice president's residence grounds will see the planting of a pomegranate tree, symbolizing hope and righteousness in Judaism, for the first time by Harris and Emhoff.
Addressing the escalating violence in the Middle East, Harris has reiterated Israel's right to self-defense while acknowledging the emotional toll of the humanitarian crisis in the region. She has previously highlighted the events of October 7 and emphasized her commitment to Israel's security and the Jewish people.
Emhoff, who is Jewish, will also participate in the American Jewish Committee October 7 commemoration in Washington, DC, where he will recite a prayer. The attacks on October 7, 2023, resulted in significant casualties in Israel, with many still held hostage by Hamas. The subsequent conflict in Gaza has led to a dire humanitarian situation, with thousands of Palestinians losing their lives.
Harris has been vocal about the conditions in Gaza, describing them as inhumane and stressing the need for humanitarian aid, a ceasefire, and the release of hostages. She has indicated that the US has influenced Israeli decision-making and continues to advocate for peace in the region.
During a recent meeting with Arab American advocates in Michigan, Harris expressed her desire for the war to end and pledged to work towards that goal. Despite occasional disruptions by pro-Palestinian protesters at campaign events, Harris has reaffirmed the administration's commitment to achieving a ceasefire deal.
