NBC News reports:

A number of Democratic lawmakers who served in the military and in the CIA say Israel’s tactics in the Gaza Strip are endangering efforts to defeat Hamas militants and called on President Joe Biden to use “all our leverage” to secure an immediate shift in Israel’s approach.

In a letter sent Monday to Biden, the House lawmakers said they were “deeply concerned” by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s current military strategy in Gaza.

“The mounting civilian death toll and humanitarian crisis are unacceptable and not in line with American interests; nor do they advance the cause of security for our ally, Israel,” the group wrote.

“We also believe it jeopardizes efforts to destroy the terrorist organization Hamas and secure the release of all hostages,” the letter said.

The letter came amid growing tensions between the Biden administration and Israel over how Israeli forces are conducting an offensive against Hamas in Gaza and increasing frustration among Biden’s fellow Democrats in Congress. A meeting last week between members of Congress and Israel’s ambassador to the U.S. failed to reassure many Democratic lawmakers. [Continue reading…]