President Joe Biden visited Virginia with Sen. Bernie Sanders to commemorate Earth Day and discuss clean energy proposals. During a private conversation, Sanders expressed concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged Biden to use newly authorized funding as leverage over Israel. Progressive voices within the Democratic Party are calling for accountability in how the funding is used and are growing more vocal in their protests over the situation in Gaza, leading to tensions on college campuses across the country.
College campus protests against the war in Gaza are escalating, leading to concerns about antisemitic comments and clashes between protesters and police officers. Columbia University, where protests have been particularly intense, has transitioned classes into hybrid mode until the end of the semester. Despite the unrest, Biden has not visited campus, citing security concerns and political challenges. Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has demanded action from the Biden administration to protect Jewish students, including a plan for potential mobilization of the National Guard.
While Biden has taken the pro-Palestinian demonstrations in stride, there are increasing concerns about threats targeting Jewish students. Some advisers to the president acknowledge the seriousness of these threats and are monitoring the situation closely. Recent polling suggests that while young voters sympathize with both Israeli and Palestinian people, they are more concerned about the economy than the conflict in the Middle East. Biden’s decision to sign an aid package for Israel amidst the protests has raised questions about his support for the country.
Biden released a national security memo in February stating that partners receiving military aid from the US must adhere to international humanitarian law, with a deadline of May 8 for Israel to be certified. Officials are still evaluating Israel’s compliance and have not reached a conclusion on potential actions. Biden has warned Netanyahu that the US could make changes to support if more humanitarian assistance was not allowed into Gaza. Progressives like Sanders are seeking assurances from Biden on his approach to the situation in Gaza, with questions about accountability being raised.
The situation remains challenging for Biden, as protests continue and tensions rise on college campuses. The administration is facing pressure to take action against Israel if it is found to be impeding aid and not adhering to human rights laws. No decisions have been made yet, but there is a possibility of slowing military provisions, curtailing monetary assistance, or increasing public pressure on Netanyahu. Despite the challenges, Biden has remained diplomatic in his approach to the situation, seeking to balance concerns from both progressive voices and traditional allies.
