As the Democratic National Convention approaches, a coalition of pro-Palestinian delegates is preparing to make a significant push for a policy shift that could reshape U.S. foreign policy. Their primary objective is to advocate for an arms embargo on Israel, reflecting a growing discontent with the current stance of the Democratic Party on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Organizers have called on supporters to display their solidarity by wearing Palestinian keffiyehs (scarves) and waving Palestinian flags. They aim to influence the party platform by advocating for language that supports the enforcement of laws prohibiting military aid to parties that commit severe human rights abuses. The delegates plan to press their case on the convention floor, demanding a more prominent role in the platform’s development.
President Joe Biden is slated to address the convention on Monday, with Vice President Kamala Harris scheduled to speak on Thursday. The pro-Palestinian delegates argue that they deserve a larger role in crafting the party’s platform. They are pushing for explicit provisions that would curb military support to Israel, particularly in light of recent U.S. arms sales and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Liano Sharon, a Jewish business consultant and delegate, emphasized the group’s resolve: “We’re going to make our voices heard. Freedom of expression includes the right to stand up and be heard, even if the authority says otherwise.” Sharon, along with 34 other delegates, has signed an alternative platform to highlight their demands, criticizing the convention’s approach as insufficiently responsive to their concerns.
The draft platform, which was released in mid-July, calls for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas but fails to address the high casualty rates in Gaza or propose measures to limit U.S. arms shipments to Israel. Recently, the U.S. approved $20 billion in additional arms sales to Israel, further fueling frustration among pro-Palestinian activists.
The Uncommitted National Movement, a separate but aligned effort, has also been vocal about their demands. They are seeking a major speaking slot for a Palestinian American or a humanitarian worker from Gaza to highlight the humanitarian crisis. Although they have not secured a main-stage appearance, organizers have successfully arranged a daytime panel discussion focusing on Arab and Palestinian issues, as well as a session on antisemitism.
Despite their relatively small number among the convention delegates, the pro-Palestinian activists’ influence could be significant. The potential for disruptions both inside the convention hall and at large protests outside could pose challenges for party organizers. With Vice President Harris now at the forefront following Biden’s withdrawal from the race, the Democratic Party is striving to address the concerns of this crucial voting bloc.
Harris has been seen as more empathetic toward Gazan civilians compared to Biden. However, her national security adviser recently reaffirmed that she does not support an arms embargo on Israel. Following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Harris voiced support for Israel’s right to defend itself while also stressing the importance of acknowledging the suffering in Gaza.
In Michigan, a key battleground state with a significant Arab American population, the Uncommitted National Movement’s efforts include meetings with local leaders, such as Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud. This engagement highlights the ongoing dialogue between the Harris campaign and the Arab American community.
As the convention nears, the pro-Palestinian activists are preparing for large-scale demonstrations. Organizers anticipate that protests could draw tens of thousands of participants, reflecting deep-seated dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Their demands for a more forceful stance from Harris and the Democratic Party underscore the ongoing tension within the party as it seeks to balance diverse and often conflicting viewpoints on this sensitive issue.
