‘All options are on the table’ to keep Iran from going nuclear, Kamala Harris says in High Holiday call with Jewish voters

WASHINGTON — In a pre-election High Holidays call with Jewish voters, Vice President Kamala Harris pledged never to allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon, emphasizing that she prefers diplomacy but is prepared to consider all options.

During the call on Friday afternoon, just hours before Yom Kippur began, Harris positioned herself as a strong advocate for preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear capabilities, contrasting herself with her opponent, Donald Trump, whom she criticized for his approach to Iran during his presidency.

“Rest assured, as president, I will take whatever measures are necessary to protect American interests from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists, and I will prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon,” she stated. “While diplomacy is my preferred approach, I am prepared to explore all possible options.”

Harris’s use of the phrase “all options are on the table” reflects a commitment to supporting Israel in preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power, especially in the aftermath of Iran’s recent missile attacks on Israel. Harris’s stance signals a willingness to provide Israel with the necessary support, including military assistance, to counter the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

President Joe Biden has expressed support for Israel in responding to Iran’s attacks, although he has cautioned against immediate military action due to the potential for regional escalation. In contrast, Trump has not clearly stated his position on assisting Israel in a potential strike on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Trump has criticized Biden for advising Israel against targeting Iranian nuclear sites, arguing that such restraint could lead to serious consequences once Iran acquires nuclear weapons. Harris, on the other hand, accused Trump of failing to hold Iran accountable for its actions and exacerbating the situation by withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal without a viable alternative.

In addition to addressing the Iran nuclear issue, Harris reaffirmed her support for Israel during the conflict with Hamas in 2023, emphasizing the importance of achieving a ceasefire and securing the release of all hostages, including American citizens.

Furthermore, Harris condemned Trump for promoting antisemitic rhetoric and creating division within the Jewish community. She highlighted the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish students on college campuses.

Overall, Harris’s message to Jewish voters emphasized her commitment to protecting Israel’s security, countering antisemitism, and promoting a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish communities in the United States.