A group of US officials who resigned in protest over the Biden administration’s Gaza policy are now uniting to support ongoing dissent and pressure the government to change its stance.
More than half a dozen individuals from various sectors of the US government have publicly left their positions, citing their inability to continue working under the current administration.
Additionally, several others have quietly resigned. Many of these former officials aim to influence change from outside the government.
President Joe Biden has faced increasing pressure both internationally and domestically regarding his support for Israel in its eight-month conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
This war has resulted in tens of thousands of civilian deaths, displaced millions, and caused severe hunger in the region. Although the administration’s rhetoric has become more critical, with demands for Israel to better protect civilians and allow more aid into Gaza, the underlying policies have largely remained the same.
The officials who resigned publicly—Josh Paul, Harrison Mann, Tariq Habash, Annelle Sheline, Hala Rharrit, Lily Greenberg Call, Alex Smith, and Stacy Gilbert—expressed that their insights and concerns were being ignored by the administration.
They criticized the administration for overlooking the humanitarian crisis caused by Israel’s military actions and highlighted the damage they believe US policy is causing to the country’s credibility. They felt the administration did not fully understand the impact of its stance.
These former officials, in their discussions with CNN, revealed that many of their colleagues within the government share their views and supported their decision to resign.
One of their primary goals is to offer support and guidance to these colleagues, whether they choose to leave or continue to express dissent from within.
Another significant aim is to intensify pressure on the Biden administration to alter its policies.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a statement denying any involvement in the use of a floating dock for the rescue of Israeli hostages from Hamas at the Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza.
