Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz both expressed unwavering support for Israel during a vice presidential debate that occurred just after Israel faced an Iranian attack.
However, the two men clashed over whether former President Donald Trump would be as reliable in maintaining the U.S.-Israel relationship as President Joe Biden has been. Biden recently sent reinforcements to counter the Iranian assault and issued a warning of severe consequences for Iran.
When asked if they would support Israel if it were to preemptively strike Iran to hinder its nuclear program, Walz, the Democratic nominee, emphasized the importance of steady leadership from the United States in dealing with the Iranian threat.
Walz criticized Trump’s behavior during the previous presidential debate and questioned his ability to handle diplomatic alliances effectively. He cited concerns from Trump’s associates, including Vance, about Trump’s unpredictability in foreign relations. Walz praised Vice President Kamala Harris for her ability to unite coalitions and work with allies.
Vance defended Trump’s record in his first term and accused Biden and Harris of emboldening Iran through their policies. He claimed that Iran had received significant financial benefits during the Harris administration, which he believed had led to the recent attack.
Regarding a potential preemptive strike by Israel, Vance stated that it is Israel’s decision to protect its country and that the U.S. should support its allies in fighting against threats.
In response, Walz defended the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which Trump had abandoned, and argued that Trump’s actions had allowed Iran to progress further towards obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also mentioned the importance of Israel’s defense against threats like Hamas.
Walz highlighted the need for Israel to defend itself and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the fundamental nature of these issues.
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