In response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, progressive lawmakers within President Joe Biden's own party are intensifying their calls for the administration to use its leverage and take a tougher stance on Israel. POLITICO reports that these lawmakers are urging the Biden administration to address growing humanitarian concerns and push for a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza.

The White House has expressed its support for a pause in hostilities to address the pressing humanitarian issues in Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear on Friday that Israel does not share the same sentiment.

The tension between the Biden administration and Israeli leadership is expected to reach a critical point in the coming days as Congress deliberates on a funding request that includes billions of dollars for Israel. Several lawmakers have demanded that the administration pressure Israel to address civilian safety and humanitarian issues before finalizing any additional aid.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) stated in an interview that it is essential for the United States to mediate the atrocities in Gaza and set a standard for addressing humanitarian concerns. These demands align with a growing chorus of Democrats who have become increasingly concerned about Israel's Gaza campaign and are pushing for a pause in the fighting to allow civilians to escape.

Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) expressed their concerns by sending a list of questions to the administration regarding civilian deaths, humanitarian needs, the duration of the conflict, and other related issues. They emphasized the importance of prioritizing humanitarian aid and ensuring the safety of civilians during the conflict.

The clash between the United States and Israel, coupled with mounting progressive pressure, comes as Congress considers a request from the Biden administration to provide over $14.3 billion to Israel as part of a comprehensive national security supplemental package worth approximately $106 billion. While lawmakers missed the opportunity to demand conditions on the aid, they remain firm in their call for humanitarian assurances to be addressed.

Administration officials have sought to hold Israel accountable and minimize civilian casualties through ongoing discussions with Israeli counterparts. Additionally, they emphasize that when the United States transfers weapons to any country, it requires compliance with international laws governing armed conflicts.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with senators in the White House situation room to discuss holding Israel accountable and the importance of minimizing civilian casualties. Recent decisions, such as turning on water and facilitating humanitarian aid delivery, indicate some progress.

Despite progressive pressure, other Democratic leaders have stopped short of directly calling for a ceasefire. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries outlined principles that he believes should be met, including defeating Hamas, freeing hostages, and delivering humanitarian aid. However, the logistical management of these objectives is expected to be left to international governments and organizations.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed the U.S. position on a humanitarian pause during a meeting with Netanyahu, urging Israel to pursue a cessation of fighting while providing advice on minimizing civilian casualties.

Progressive lawmakers' past calls for conditions on aid to Israel have seen limited support, and the current circumstances offer little chance of success in passing such measures in Congress. Demands for conditions on aid risk losing support from the moderate pro-Israel wing of the Democratic caucus.

As discussions on the funding request continue, Democrats find themselves navigating the balance between supporting a longtime ally and addressing the moral criticisms of a military campaign that has raised serious humanitarian concerns.

While the path forward remains uncertain, progressive pressure continues to build on the Biden administration to prioritize humanitarian needs in Gaza and push for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.