The White House is currently navigating divisions among its staff over the growing Israeli-Palestinian violence in the Gaza Strip. As the conflict enters its sixth day, no clear strategy has emerged from the Biden Administration.
The clashes between Israel and Hamas, which began last week, have left at least 83 Palestinians dead, including 17 children and 12 women, according to the Palestinian health ministry. At least eight Israelis have been killed, including a child.
Because of the unpredictable nature of the crisis, the White House is struggling to find a path to peace.
On one side, the White House is facing pressure from some Democratic lawmakers and progressive groups who are urging President Biden to take a tougher stance against Israel and hold them accountable for what they call “war crimes.”
On the other side is the White House’s Middle East team, which is dominated by veteran staffers from the Obama Administration. This group of advisors is focused on exploring diplomatic paths to resolving tensions between the two sides.
In the meantime, President Biden has largely remained on the sidelines amid the growing violence.
The President has offered sympathy for the victims of the conflict, but as of yet has yet to present a plan for promoting a resolution. He has expressed “grave concern” about the situation but has not taken any further action.
Biden’s silence has added to the growing criticism of the President’s handling of the conflict, which is raising questions about the White House’s strategy.
Some key politicians from both sides of the aisle, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have called on Biden to take stronger steps to end the violence. However, Biden is reportedly reluctant to pressure Israel, fearful of alienating a key ally.
The President’s chief of staff has also signaled that Biden is prepared to wait to see if a ceasefire is reached before taking further action.
While the White House grapples with its internal divisions, the violence between Israel and Palestinian militants is likely to continue unless a diplomatic path forward is found. Until that happens, the Biden Administration and the White House will continue to face criticism for their inaction.