U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has once again called for a ceasefire in Gaza, pointing to the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar as a critical moment to push for peace. Sinwar, one of the masterminds behind the October 7 attack on Israel, was reportedly killed during Israeli military operations, and Harris believes this offers a unique chance to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages.

Harris, speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, highlighted the importance of seizing this moment to bring the war to a close and address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. She acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the need to remain dedicated to finding a resolution. Harris noted that the situation in the Middle East has always been difficult, but insisted that the complexity should not deter efforts toward peace.

When questioned about the potential impact of growing frustration within Arab American and Muslim communities over U.S. support for Israel’s military actions, particularly in key battleground states like Michigan, Harris focused on the humanitarian aspect of the conflict. She expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives and reiterated her commitment to speaking out about the tragedies in Gaza, while also referencing the violence inflicted by Hamas in its initial attack on Israel.

Harris is locked in a close race with Donald Trump ahead of the November 5 election. States like Michigan, home to significant Arab American and Muslim populations, are seen as crucial to the outcome. Harris will need strong support from cities like Detroit and Atlanta to replicate President Joe Biden’s 2020 victories in Michigan and Georgia.

Meanwhile, Harris has garnered endorsements from 50 prominent Lebanese Americans, who commended the Biden administration’s unwavering support for Lebanon during its ongoing crisis. This backing comes as Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon have led to the deaths of more than 2,350 people and displaced over 1.2 million, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Hezbollah attacks have also resulted in the deaths of 50 Israeli soldiers and civilians.

The conflict in Gaza erupted following Hamas’s October 7 attack, which claimed the lives of around 1,200 people and led to the capture of 253 hostages. In response, Israel’s military has launched a series of airstrikes, resulting in over 42,500 Palestinian casualties, according to Palestinian officials. Despite the high death toll, Harris remains focused on facilitating a ceasefire and bringing an end to the violence while ensuring that the tragedies on all sides are acknowledged and addressed.