​​Josh Shapiro's 'volunteer' work for Israeli army scrutinised as Harris eyes VP nod

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's links to and support for Israel have been in the spotlight this past week, as the prominent Democrat is the top contender to become the vice presidential nominee and Kamala Harris' running mate in the upcoming US presidential election this November. 

Shapiro is a frontrunner for the position of vice presidential nominee alongside Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear; Minnesota Governor Tim Walz; Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; Arizona Senator Mark Kelly; and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.

Over the past several days, Shapiro's political stock has soared. And amid the rise in attention towards him, a website was launched called "No Genocide Josh". It urges the Harris campaign against choosing him over his links to Israel and his past comments and actions demonising the pro-Palestine movement as well as pro-Palestinian sentiments in the state of Pennsylvania.

Shapiro has been a staunch supporter of Israel for decades, dating back to his high school and college days when he wrote for a student newspaper at the University of Rochester. One opinion piece, titled "Peace Not Possible", resurfaced in a newspaper last month.

Read more: US: Josh Shapiro's 'volunteer' work for Israeli army scrutinised as Harris eyes VP nod