Sen. Cory Booker has defended Vice President Kamala Harris amid criticism over the lack of a Palestinian American speaker at the Democratic National Convention. On CNN’s “State of the Union,” Booker asserted that Harris is deeply concerned about the Israel-Hamas conflict.

He highlighted her personal anguish over the situation and her urgent efforts to secure a cease-fire and the release of hostages, stressing her commitment to alleviating Palestinian suffering.

Booker also noted that the convention addressed the conflict through various speakers, including Harris, Sen. Raphael Warnock, and past presidents. He argued that their speeches effectively communicated the need for a cease-fire and brought attention to the suffering of both Palestinians and American hostages, despite the absence of a Palestinian American voice at the event.

Criticism of the convention’s choice to exclude a Palestinian American speaker came from congressional Democrats, uncommitted delegates, and pro-Palestinian activists. This discontent was exacerbated by the decision to allow the parents of an American hostage to speak, which some felt highlighted a lack of balanced representation on the issue.

In her speech, Harris acknowledged the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reaffirmed her commitment to defending Israel against terrorist attacks. She expressed a desire to end the conflict in a way that would ensure Israeli security, facilitate the release of hostages, and provide dignity and security to the Palestinian people.

Despite ongoing efforts, negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage release deal have recently stalled. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent diplomatic trip to the Middle East aimed to push these negotiations forward but ended without a significant agreement, leaving the situation unresolved and tensions high.