President Joe Biden and his top national security officials are facing criticism over Israel’s handling of the recent conflict in Gaza. Allies of the administration are concerned that defending Israel’s response to Hamas attacks may become unsustainable for the White House. The recent airstrike in the Jabalya refugee camp has raised questions about the effectiveness of the administration’s efforts to minimize civilian casualties and is causing concerns about eroding international support for Israel.

The mounting civilian death toll in Gaza has been a surprise to some American officials, who now face increasing pressure to denounce Israel’s tactics. However, the Biden administration has maintained a staunch defense of Israel’s right to defend itself. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby acknowledged that Israeli forces may sometimes fail to meet their own expectations about minimizing civilian casualties, but insisted that they are trying to do so.

Critics argue that Israel’s operation in Gaza, including the intentional targeting of a refugee camp, violates international humanitarian law and shows a disregard for civilian lives. Some American entreaties to ease humanitarian suffering in Gaza have been successful, such as increasing aid and restoring internet and cell phone connectivity. However, Israel has rejected calls for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who met with Biden last week, believes that the president should speak out more forcefully about protecting civilians in Gaza to reduce the likelihood of such strikes. Biden has resisted calls for a ceasefire and continues to support Israel’s “responsibility” to defend its citizens.

Protests against the administration’s stance on Israel have been growing, including at a recent fundraiser attended by Biden. Despite the public rhetoric, Biden’s aides believe that their messages of warning to Israel are more effectively delivered in private. The administration has had tough conversations behind the scenes and has provided advice to delay a ground invasion to secure the release of hostages.

Overall, the mounting civilian death toll is causing intense concern among Biden and his team, who fear the backlash could extend globally and within the United States. Critics interrupted a hearing on Capitol Hill featuring Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, expressing their anger over the conflict in Gaza.

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