HomeElection News

Vivek Ramaswamy Challenges Nikki Haley on Israel and Foreign Policy

Vivek Ramaswamy attacked fellow GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley for a “hawkish neoconservative vision.” | Charles Krupa/AP

In the ongoing battle for the GOP presidential nomination, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has intensified his criticisms of former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. His latest salvo against his primary rival focuses on issues related to Israel and foreign policy. Ramaswamy stated that Haley should be “disqualified from being president,” accusing her of having “personal conflicts of interest” and promoting a “hawkish neoconservative vision” that he believes could lead to prolonged conflict and war.

Ramaswamy’s comments came outside a New Hampshire GOP event, where Haley was addressing activists. He took issue with Haley’s foreign policy experience, which he suggested was reflected in her $8 million bank account. He expressed concerns about her positions, stating, “I do not want a president anywhere near the White House who’s willing to march us into World War III, as [Haley’s] rhetoric suggests.”

Haley had earlier compared Ramaswamy’s views on Israel and foreign policy to those of the far-left “squad” in Congress. She expressed that there is no place for Ramaswamy or the squad in discussions of international affairs. Haley’s campaign did not immediately respond to Ramaswamy’s remarks.

This exchange is part of an ongoing feud between the two GOP presidential candidates, with tensions rising since the recent conflict in Israel involving attacks by Hamas. Ramaswamy had previously been criticized by other rivals for suggesting that some Republicans were displaying “selective moral outrage” over Hamas’ attacks, insinuating that financial interests and super PAC influence were at play. Haley, in contrast, has consistently voiced strong support for Israel.

The conflict in Israel has caused divisions within the GOP presidential primary field, particularly regarding support for Israel. Former President Donald Trump’s remarks criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his comments about Hezbollah have drawn rebukes from some of his rivals, including Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

As the primary race continues, the candidates’ positions on foreign policy and Israel are expected to remain significant points of contention.

Subscribe to our newsletter

COMMENTS