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Growing Progressive Pressure on Biden Administration Over Israel’s Gaza Campaign

Progressive members of Congress are increasing pressure on the Biden administration to prioritize humanitarian concerns in Gaza, creating tensions between the United States and Israel. Congress's deliberations on a significant aid package to Israel add complexity to the situation.

“I think it is time for our party to press upon the president to really be a mediating force in what we are seeing in these atrocities in Gaza,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. | Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Progressive members of Congress are increasingly urging the Biden administration to use its influence to address the escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Tensions are rising as Congress considers a significant funding request that includes billions of dollars in aid to Israel. The pressure on the White House is coming from a growing chorus of Democrats who want to see a pause in the conflict to allow civilians to escape the violence.

Progressive Demands for Humanitarian Focus

Progressive lawmakers have called on the administration to take a tougher stance with Israeli leadership. They are pushing for a commitment from Israel to prioritize civilian safety and address humanitarian issues, such as access to water and fuel, before the United States finalizes additional aid to the country. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emphasizes the need for the United States to play a mediating role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Biden Supports Humanitarian Pause, Netanyahu Rejects

While President Joe Biden has expressed support for a pause in hostilities to address humanitarian concerns, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected these calls, vowing to continue the military campaign in Gaza. This disagreement sets the stage for a potential political clash between the United States and its powerful ally, Israel.

Congress’s Dilemma

Congress is currently considering a funding request that includes over $14.3 billion in aid to Israel as part of a national security supplemental package. Lawmakers who are pressing for a cease-fire or pause in Israel’s Gaza campaign believe that they have missed the opportunity to attach conditions to the aid package. House Republicans passed a standalone Israel aid bill, making it a divisive issue for Democrats.

Administration’s Approach

The Biden administration has communicated its commitment to holding Israel accountable and minimizing civilian casualties and ensuring access to essential resources like water and fuel. National security adviser Jake Sullivan met with senators to discuss these efforts. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has conveyed the U.S. position on a humanitarian pause directly to Israel.

Progressives Face Challenges

Progressives advocating for conditions on Israel aid face challenges, as such conditions would likely lose support from the moderate pro-Israel wing of the Democratic caucus. While the debate continues, Democrats find themselves navigating a delicate balance between supporting an ally and addressing humanitarian concerns arising from the conflict in Gaza.

In summary, progressive members of Congress are intensifying their calls for the Biden administration to focus on humanitarian issues in Gaza. As Congress considers a significant funding request, tensions between the United States and Israel persist, raising questions about the future of aid to Israel.

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