Kamala Harris will not be presiding over Netanyahu’s speech to Congress as he aims to bolster U.S. backing.

Vice President Kamala Harris will not preside over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s joint address to Congress due to her presidential campaign travel. Instead, Senator Ben Cardin will oversee the event. Netanyahu is visiting to strengthen Israel’s relationship with the U.S. amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. He also plans to meet with President Joe Biden. Netanyahu aims to showcase his political strength with a potential meeting with former President Donald Trump. Harris, who has been critical of Netanyahu, has an important role in the visit. Netanyahu is under pressure to strike a ceasefire deal and secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Israel has faced international criticism for its occupation of Palestinian territories. As Israel continues its offensive in Gaza, Netanyahu is facing protests in the U.S. and pressure from rights groups. The IDF has ordered evacuations in Gaza to mitigate harm to civilians amid ongoing military operations. Netanyahu’s visit is seen as a key moment in Israel-U.S. relations before the change in administration next year.

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