White House stands firm in backing Israel amidst mounting discontent from progressives and unrest in educational institutions

During President Joe Biden's visit to Virginia for Earth Day, he was accompanied by Sen. Bernie Sanders, who played a significant role in crafting the clean energy plans Biden was unveiling. However, Sanders had more than just clean energy on his mind during their meeting.

Sanders took advantage of the rare opportunity to speak privately with Biden, a former Senate colleague and one-time Democratic primary opponent, to express his worries about how the administration was dealing with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also encouraged Biden to use the newly approved funding as a way to influence Israel's actions.

Faiz Shakir, a longtime adviser to Sanders and executive director of More Perfect Union, shared the main message: 'You’re going to have it in your pocket … you need to hold it and condition this funding,” with CNN. He emphasized the importance of not letting the money come in and just go right out.

The demands from the progressive flank of the president’s own party are increasing as protests over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza gain momentum, especially on college campuses. Protesters have criticized the stance of “Genocide Joe.” Despite this, the president and his administration remain firm in their domestic politics approach.

The recent increase in college campus protests against the war has put more pressure on the US regarding its support for Israel. Campuses nationwide have seen heightened tensions as concerns arise over antisemitic remarks directed at Jewish students during the protests and conflicts between protesters and police trying to disband the encampments.

At Columbia University, where the protests have been most intense, classes have shifted to a hybrid format for the remainder of the semester due to the escalating unrest. Second gentleman Doug Emhoff recently spoke with two Jewish leaders at the university to address the urgent issue of antisemitism on college campuses, according to a White House official.

Despite the proximity to Columbia and the intense protests, Biden will not be visiting campus as he has events in New York on Friday. Aides decided against a campus visit due to security concerns and political considerations.

During his visit on Wednesday, Speaker Mike Johnson, the top Republican overseeing the foreign aid package in the House of Representatives, used the opportunity to urge the Biden administration to protect Jewish students. Johnson publicly stated his intention to call Biden after the visit to demand action, which could include a plan for potential National Guard mobilization.

Johnson emphasized the need to restore order on campuses and expressed his belief that the country is capable of better.

Biden has been unfazed by the pro-Palestinian demonstrations at his public events for months. His advisors have confirmed that there are no plans to alter his approach. Being a seasoned politician, Biden acknowledges that not everyone will agree with him, but respects their right to express dissent.

One adviser mentioned that the threats aimed at Jewish students have been very concerning. "You can protest against the war," the adviser told CNN, "but it's not right to target Jewish students."

Some senior advisers to the president are closely monitoring the growing unrest. They argue that the protestors represent only a small percentage of the student body and do not reflect the majority's views.

Recent polling from the Harvard Kennedy School’s Institute of Politics supports this perspective. Among voters aged 18-29, only 18% approved of Biden’s handling of the Middle East situation. Interestingly, the economy ranked as the top concern for this demographic. Additionally, young voters showed equal sympathy towards both the Israeli and Palestinian people.

The optics of the situation remain challenging for Biden. This week, he signed into law an aid package granting $16 billion in additional military funding for Israel during ongoing protests. The White House has expressed dissatisfaction with how Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is conducting the war against Hamas and the level of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. It is uncertain if this will affect the unwavering support for Israel from Biden.

In February, Biden issued a national security memo requiring partners receiving US military aid to follow international humanitarian law. The White House is expected to determine by May 8 if Israel is in compliance. While officials plan to meet the deadline, a conclusion has not been reached yet according to CNN.

Biden recently had a phone call with Netanyahu where he mentioned that the US might need to reconsider its support if Israel doesn't allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, as per CNN.

If it's found that Israel is blocking aid and not following human rights laws, the White House could respond by reducing military aid, cutting financial assistance, or increasing public pressure on Netanyahu. However, no decisions have been made yet, according to officials.

Sanders wanted reassurances from Biden on his approach to the situation. Shakir, a Sanders adviser, mentioned that the president remained diplomatic in his response.

Many progressives are wondering about accountability in this situation.

CNN’s Sam Fossum contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the complex interplay between domestic politics and foreign policy during President Biden's visit to Virginia for Earth Day. Senator Bernie Sanders' private meeting with Biden underscores the growing pressure from the progressive flank of the Democratic party to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sanders' demands for conditional funding and influence on Israel's actions reflect the increasing momentum of protests on college campuses and the concerns raised about antisemitic remarks.

Despite the protests and demands for accountability, Biden's administration remains cautious, balancing its support for Israel with concerns about human rights and the need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The recent aid package and Biden's phone call with Netanyahu indicate a nuanced approach, with the possibility of reducing aid or increasing public pressure if Israel is found to be violating international law. The delicate balancing act between domestic and foreign policy considerations will likely continue as the administration navigates the evolving situation in the Middle East and the ongoing protests in the United States.