Western media revealed that Western officials are concerned about the prolongation of the Israeli war on Gaza, stressing that there are many factors that could push this matter into something that can no longer be controlled. 

Former White House National Security Advisor John Bolton said it was "only a matter of time before we pay a heavy price."

In turn, Senator Chris Murphy, the top Democrat on the Senate Middle East Subcommittee, warned that "the current rate of civilian deaths inside Gaza is unacceptable,"  urging "Israel to immediately reconsider its strategy and shift to a more deliberate and proportionate campaign in Gaza."

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Earlier, the second-ranking Democrat in the Senate, Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-Illinois), stated that he was in favor of a ceasefire in Gaza. This is significant as it goes opposite the stance of President Biden and several Democratic senators, who are advocating for a "pause".

When questioned by CNN's Poppy Harlow if a ceasefire was needed, Durbin expressed that he thought it was, adding that it would need to occur “under circumstances” and should be initiated with the release of captives.

Moreover, The New York Times reported on Thursday that the United States will pressure "Israel" to “temporarily stop” the aggression against Gaza.

White House officials said that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to "pressure the Israeli government to agree to a humanitarian pause in Gaza to allow for captives to be released safely and for humanitarian aid to be distributed," citing White House officials. 

On another note, Israeli media reported on Thursday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is studying the American request for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.