U.S. President Joe Biden, along with key members of his administration, is increasingly signaling to Israel that its military operations in Gaza could face growing difficulties amidst a rising international outcry over the humanitarian distress being witnessed.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who recently set out for Israel with an emphasis on safeguarding civilian life, have privately and forcefully made their point known to Israeli officials. They’ve communicated concerns that the waning support could spell significant strategic setbacks for the Israel Defense Forces’ actions against Hamas.
American officials are holding the view that Israel’s window to achieve its declared aim of neutralizing Hamas through its ongoing campaign is narrowing.
They are wary of the mounting humanitarian outrage and the surge in civilian casualties sparking a demand for a ceasefire that could soon reach a critical juncture.
According to sources cited by CNN, some top advisers to President Biden think that the U.S. might only have a few weeks to resist international pressure to demand a ceasefire before it becomes impossible to ignore.
Despite these warnings, there is no indication that Israel plans to reduce its military actions. The Israeli military has confirmed its strategy of encircling Gaza City, intensifying its efforts in the region. Observations from CNN on late Thursday evening showed an escalation in the offensive, with the northern Gaza skyline lit by flares and ongoing explosions.
Particularly disturbing to President Biden and his security team were the recent Israeli airstrikes targeting a refugee camp in northern Gaza, which led to harrowing devastation and fatalities. According to two sources familiar with the conversations, the imagery of the aftermath was unsettling for the president.
A senior official from the administration remarked on the situation, noting that the criticism Israel is facing is growing louder and is coming not only from usual detractors but also from staunch allies.
