What Kamala Harris’ Middle East Policy Might Look Like: Balancing U.S. Interests and Global Perceptions
As the potential next President of the United States, Kamala Harris is likely to inherit a complex and challenging Middle East landscape.
With the current administration negotiating a cease-fire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the next administration will still have to manage ongoing tensions in the region.
Harris’ approach to Middle East policy is expected to be a continuation of the strategies laid out by President Joe Biden, though her unique background and perspectives could introduce subtle shifts in focus and tone.
A Continuation of Biden’s Middle East Approach
Since being nominated as the Democratic presidential candidate, Harris has emphasized a balanced approach to Middle East policy.
Her stance includes reaffirming U.S. support for Israel’s security while advocating for the humanitarian needs of Palestinians.
This dual focus suggests a continuation of Biden’s policies on the Israel-Hamas conflict and broader Middle East relations.
During her acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Harris outlined her position, stating, “President Biden and I are working to end this war such that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, security, freedom, and self-determination.”
While Harris has not yet articulated her own detailed policies, her alignment with Biden’s approach is clear.
Unlike Biden, who has extensive foreign policy experience from his time on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Harris’ exposure to foreign policy primarily comes from her tenure as Vice President.
However, this could work to her advantage, as she may be perceived as free from the “foreign policy baggage” that has burdened other candidates, including Biden himself.
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The Role of Advisors in Shaping Kamala Harris Middle East Policy
One key figure to watch in shaping Harris’ potential Middle East policy is Phillip Gordon, her current national security adviser.
If Harris is elected, Gordon is expected to remain in his role, where he would serve as the principal adviser on all national security issues, including foreign policy.
Phillip Gordon is known for his cautious and pragmatic approach to American foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East.
His 2020 book, Losing the Long Game: The False Promise of Regime Change in the Middle East, criticizes the notion that the U.S. can easily solve complex problems in the region through external intervention.
Gordon’s outlook suggests that a Harris administration would likely be “very cautious” in dealing assertively with countries like Iran.
However, Harris’ direct involvement in the Biden administration’s recent decision to deploy more military assets to the Middle East indicates that she is not averse to taking decisive action when necessary.
Generational and Personal Perspectives
Harris’ approach to Israel and the broader Middle East may also be influenced by generational and personal factors.
Unlike Biden, who belongs to a generation with a deep emotional connection to Israel due to the Holocaust and Israel’s early struggles, Harris represents a younger generation that sees Israel as a stable democracy and the region’s top military power.
This generational shift may lead to a slightly different emphasis in her policies.
Moreover, Harris’ personal background as the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India could shape her sensitivity to global perceptions, particularly from the Global South.
While Biden often proudly declares his Zionism, a term that can be polarizing internationally, Harris may adopt a more nuanced approach, recognizing the complex views on the Middle East held by various global communities.
Harris’ Balancing Act in the Middle East
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Kamala Harris is likely to continue Biden’s Middle East policies while introducing her own perspectives and adjustments.
Her approach will likely involve a delicate balance between maintaining strong U.S.-Israel relations and addressing Palestinian humanitarian needs.
With advisors like Phillip Gordon guiding her, Harris may adopt a cautious but pragmatic approach to the region, prioritizing stability and avoiding aggressive interventions.
While it remains to be seen what a “Harris Doctrine” in the Middle East would look like, her ability to navigate the diverse views within the Democratic Party and the broader international community will be crucial.
For now, her focus is on winning the election and uniting her party, which means articulating policies that resonate with both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian constituencies.