President Joe Biden convened with U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, alongside Senators Bernie Sanders and Ed Markey, in response to their opposition to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Gaza bombing campaign.
The meeting occurs amid a Democratic divide over Biden’s support for Israel’s retaliation to the October 7 Hamas attack, straining his electoral coalition as the presidential election approaches.
Arriving from an Earth Day event in Virginia, Biden joined Ocasio-Cortez, Sanders, and Markey in the Oval Office for discussions.
The lawmakers have been vocal critics of Israel’s policies, with Ocasio-Cortez describing the situation in Gaza as resembling “an unfolding genocide.”
Despite their differing views on Israel, Ocasio-Cortez expressed support for Biden’s reelection, emphasizing the global importance of protecting democracy.
Biden acknowledged Ocasio-Cortez’s influence and signaled a willingness to engage on international matters beyond the Middle East.
Both the White House and the lawmakers refrained from disclosing the specifics of the meeting.
Biden earlier condemned antisemitic protests while advocating for an understanding of the Palestinian perspective, reflecting his administration’s nuanced approach to the conflict.
The Gaza assault ensued after Hamas’s attack, resulting in casualties on both sides.
Human rights advocates report a rise in bias and hate incidents against Jews, Arabs, and Muslims, heightening concerns during the Jewish holiday of Passover.
The meeting underscores the complexities within the Democratic Party regarding Middle East policy, as Biden faces the delicate balance between supporting Israel and addressing Palestinian humanitarian concerns.
