اردو 
What happened in Syria?
Opposition forces have taken control of the capital after a significant offensive. Here is how it unravelled.
Dire Predictions at Republican Jewish Coalition Event
Former President Donald Trump has made alarming claims regarding the future of Israel should Vice President Kamala Harris win the upcoming presidential election. Speaking to a gathering of Jewish donors in Las Vegas, Trump asserted that a Harris presidency would lead to the complete abandonment of Israel by the United States, suggesting that “terrorist armies” would then wage war to drive Jews out of the Holy Land. He emphasized, “You are not going to have an Israel … if she becomes president. Israel will no longer exist”.
Trump's Call to Action for Jewish Voters
During his address to the Republican Jewish Coalition, Trump urged Jewish voters to reconsider their support for Democratic candidates, claiming that many are unaware of the potential consequences of a Harris presidency. He stated, “You are going to be abandoned if she becomes president, and I think you have to explain that to your people. Because they don’t know it. They have no idea what they are getting into”. Trump’s rhetoric reflects a broader strategy to galvanize support among Jewish voters by painting a bleak picture of the Democratic Party's stance on Israel.
Policy Proposals and Criticism of Democrats
In addition to his dire predictions, Trump outlined several policy proposals aimed at bolstering support for Israel. He pledged to ban refugees from “terror-infested areas,” including Gaza, and to take a hard stance against individuals he labeled as “pro-Hamas thugs.” Furthermore, he promised to cut funding and accreditation for universities that he accused of spreading “anti-Semitic propaganda”. This comes in the wake of significant protests on U.S. college campuses regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have sparked debates over anti-Semitism and the right to criticize Israeli policies.
Trump also criticized Jewish voters who support Democratic candidates, questioning their loyalty to Israel. He remarked, “Who are the 50 percent of Jewish people that are voting for these people that hate Israel and don’t like the Jewish people?”. This statement reflects a growing concern among some Republicans about the voting patterns of Jewish Americans, particularly in light of recent tensions surrounding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
Harris Campaign's Response
In response to Trump’s incendiary remarks, a spokesperson for Harris emphasized her long-standing support for Israel as a secure and democratic homeland for the Jewish people. Morgan Finkelstein stated that Harris “stands steadfastly against anti-Semitism” and has consistently supported Israel’s right to defend itself. The spokesperson also highlighted Trump’s controversial history with Jewish communities, including his associations with far-right figures and derogatory comments about Jewish people.
Harris has echoed President Joe Biden’s strong support for Israel while also acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She has called for a ceasefire and expressed concern over the high civilian death toll, stating that “far too many” innocent lives have been lost. This dual approach aims to balance support for Israel with a recognition of Palestinian suffering, a stance that has drawn criticism from some within her party.
Conclusion
As the presidential election approaches, the rhetoric surrounding Israel and U.S. foreign policy is intensifying. Trump’s stark warnings about the implications of a Harris presidency reflect a broader strategy to mobilize Jewish voters by framing the election as a critical juncture for Israel’s future. Meanwhile, Harris continues to assert her commitment to Israel while advocating for humanitarian considerations in the ongoing conflict. The outcome of the election could significantly impact U.S.-Israel relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
