Biden officials are creating plans for the U.S. to respond to what they’re increasingly concerned could expand from a war in Gaza to a wider conflict in the Middle East, according to four officials familiar with the matter. All were granted anonymity to tell us about sensitive, ongoing national security discussions.

The developments are perilous not just for the region but also for Joe Biden’s 2024 reelection chances. He entered office with vows to end wars. Now he’s spending the end of his first term as the West’s champion for the defense of Ukraine and a key enabler of Israel’s retaliation against Hamas.

Foreign policy isn’t expected to be the top campaign issue for voters. But still, 84% of Americans are either very or somewhat concerned that the U.S would be drawn into the Middle East conflict, according to a Quinnipiac poll in November. And with each passing month, more and more Americans fear the Biden admin is offering too much material support to Ukraine.