US has "absolutely no intention" of sending troops to Israel or Gaza: Kamala Harris

United States Vice President Kamala Harris stressed that Washington has "absolutely no intention" of sending troops to Israel or Gaza amid the ongoing conflict, CNN reported on October 29.

"We have absolutely no intention, nor do we have any plans, to send combat troops into Israel or Gaza, period," Harris said in an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes" that aired on Sunday when asked about the potential for US troops to be drawn into a war in the region.

Harris, who has been engaged in discussions and phone conversations concerning the Middle East crisis, expressed full support for the government's plans. Harris said that she supports Israel's right to defend itself while also advocating for the protection of civilians.

"By most estimates, at least 1,400 Israelis are dead. Israel, without any question, has a right to defend itself," she said.

"That being said, it is very important that there be no conflation between Hamas and the Palestinians. The Palestinians deserve equal measures of safety and security, self-determination and dignity, and we have been very clear that the rules of war must be adhered to and that there be humanitarian aid that flows," CNN quoted Harris as saying.