Vice President Kamala Harris commemorated the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel with a tree-planting ceremony at her Naval Observatory residence. Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff planted a pomegranate tree at their residence, a fruit that symbolizes good wishes for the new year in Judaism.
The ceremony marks the first tree planting for Harris and Emhoff during their time at the vice presidential residence, continuing a tradition among second families.
"Today we plant a pomegranate tree, which in Judaism is a symbol of hope and righteousness," Harris said. "So for years to come, this pomegranate tree will stand here, spreading its roots and growing stronger to remind future vice presidents of the United States, their families and all who pass through these grounds not only of the horror of October 7, but of the strength and endurance of the Jewish people. It will remind us all not to abandon the goal of peace, dignity and security for all, and it will remind us all to always have faith."
During Monday's ceremony, Emhoff spoke about antisemitism and Harris' commitment to the security of Israel and the Jewish people: "As the first Jewish spouse [of] an American president or vice president, I take this role very seriously. Kamala is the one who encouraged me to use the platform I have to fight against antisemitism and hate. She's also the person who encouraged me to lean into my Jewish faith."
Anti-Israel protesters gathered outside the premises. Their chants and drums were audible on video feeds of the live speech. As reported by CNN, Harris has faced challenges in navigating the complex diplomatic landscape surrounding the Israel-Hamas war. Arab American advocates have urged the vice president to distance herself from President Joe Biden's Israel policy, including during a recent meeting in Michigan.
Throughout the conflict, Harris has maintained that Israel has a right to defend itself while acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in the region. In June, she hosted a White House event focused partly on conflict-related sexual violence, highlighting the events of October 7.
In an interview with CBS "60 Minutes," Harris addressed the US influence on Israeli decision-making. "The work that we do diplomatically with the leadership of Israel is an ongoing pursuit around making clear our principles, which include the need for humanitarian aid, the need for this war to end, the need for a deal to be done, which would release the hostages and create a ceasefire," Harris stated in the interview.
