Barbara Leaf, the Assistant Secretary of U.S. for Middle East Affairs, asserted that the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has ignited widespread public anger against both Israel and the United States.
Speaking during a congressional hearing before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Leaf stated, “I will be frank in saying that this conflict and crisis have stirred popular anger against Israel and against us.”
Leaf’s acknowledgment comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly in the wake of the recent clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian groups. The ongoing violence has resulted in casualties on both sides and has sparked outrage not only within the region but also globally.
The Assistant Secretary of State’s admission reflects the growing frustration among many Americans and international communities over the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The United States has traditionally been a staunch ally of Israel, but the recent violence has raised questions about the effectiveness of American diplomacy and its role in resolving the conflict.
Barbara Leaf’s testimony before Congress underscores the complex nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its impact on public sentiment.
The violence has drawn condemnation from various world leaders and organizations, and the international community continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to peaceful negotiations.
The Palestinian Health Ministry announced on Wednesday that the death toll from Israeli shelling on the Gaza Strip has risen to 10,569 after a month since the war began.
Spokesperson Ashraf al-Qudra reported that among the 10,569 victims, there are 4,324 children, 2,823 women, and 649 elderly. The number of injured has surpassed 26,475 Palestinians since the start of hostilities on October 7th.
