In a striking concession, Joe Biden apologized to Muslim-American leaders after his public skepticism of the death toll figures reported by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. This act of contrition comes amid a broader controversy over the administration’s handling of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Biden’s initial doubt about the casualty numbers — which included 6,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza authorities — sparked considerable unease within his party and among administration staffers. The death toll provided by the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health has been a point of contention, given the group’s recognized status as a terrorist organization by the United States and its history of conflict with Israel.

If it wasn’t crystal clear who’s side Biden is on 👇This says it all 😑 https://t.co/lCmRfhHUXK

— Dana Justice AMERICA FIRST🇺🇸 (@msunitedam) November 27, 2023

The apology, revealed by the Washington Post, indicates a rift within the administration. Younger staffers reportedly express frustration in private over Biden’s support for Israel and feel a growing disconnect with the administration’s policy direction. On the other hand, veteran staffers appear to maintain traditional diplomatic stances.

Biden’s approach to the Israel-Hamas war has been described by some aides as the “single biggest struggle of his presidency.” The tension within the administration reflects a broader debate on foreign policy and human rights issues. The challenge is magnified by the demographic shifts within the Democratic base, particularly in key swing states.

Some administration staffers, many Muslim, have communicated their concerns to senior officials. These worries encompass the president’s support for Israel, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the political costs of actions or inactions in the region. The private meeting with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients and other senior advisers reportedly ended without a departure from established talking points, signaling a possible internal stalemate.

The Biden administration, while facing internal dissent, has sought to balance outreach to both the Jewish and Muslim communities, a diplomatic tightrope act. Daily meetings led by senior adviser Anita Dunn focus on these efforts, aiming not to alienate voters from either demographic.

Recent shifts in messaging from the administration show a more balanced stance, with Biden urging Israel to minimize civilian casualties and ensure aid reaches Gaza. The humanitarian aspect of the conflict has not been overlooked by Biden, who has advocated for a pause in fighting to facilitate assistance to Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. A temporary ceasefire, brokered for a hostage-for-prisoner exchange, marks a small step toward easing tensions and aiding civilians in distress.

Despite the administration’s efforts, criticism has not been limited to internal circles. Prominent Democrats have publicly voiced their disagreement with the president’s strategy. The pressure culminates as the White House navigates a complex international crisis, balancing domestic political considerations with the grim realities of war.

Sentiment among Arab-Americans has reportedly shifted, with a significant decrease in those indicating support for Biden in future elections, according to a survey by John Zogby Strategies. This change highlights the potential political repercussions of the administration’s foreign policy choices.