U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris, anticipated to be the Democratic nominee for the upcoming November presidential election, held "frank and constructive" discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Striking a tougher tone than President Joe Biden, Harris expressed her "serious concerns" about the casualties in Gaza and emphasized that how Israel defends itself is crucial.

“It is time for this war to end,” Harris declared after their face-to-face meeting at the White House. She also underscored the necessity for a path to a two-state solution and urged Americans to appreciate the "nuance" in the conflict.

Earlier on Thursday, Netanyahu met with Biden, who announced his withdrawal from the re-election campaign on Sunday. Netanyahu's engagements at the White House followed a passionate speech to Congress, where he vowed "total victory" against Hamas, as thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside. The prime minister is under mounting pressure domestically and internationally to bring an end to the nine-month-long Israel-Gaza war.

Biden's strong support of Israel has sparked outrage among many left-wing activists, whose backing is crucial for the Democrats in the upcoming election. This context has heightened interest in Harris's stance on Israel should she succeed Biden.

After a 40-minute meeting with Netanyahu, Harris reaffirmed her "unwavering commitment" to Israel and its right to self-defense, noting that the conflict began on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel from Gaza, resulting in 1,200 deaths and over 250 captives according to Israeli reports. Israel's retaliatory actions in Gaza have led to over 39,000 deaths.

"Israel has a right to defend itself. And how it does so matters," Harris remarked, highlighting the "dire humanitarian situation" in Gaza. "We cannot allow ourselves to be numb to the suffering, and I will not be silent."

Harris called for a ceasefire to end the war, the release of hostages, and urgent relief for the Palestinian people. Netanyahu is set to meet Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on Friday.