A seasoned diplomat, Josh Paul, who dedicated over a decade to the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, recently stepped down. This bureau is responsible for greenlighting arms deals with foreign nations.
Speaking to a renowned news outlet, Paul expressed his frustration, stating, “I felt unable to bring about any change, leading to my resignation.” President Biden has consistently shown support for Israel, especially in its actions against militant groups in Gaza. This was evident when Gaza initiated an unexpected assault on Israel on October 7.
The ongoing conflict has tragically resulted in the loss of over 3,500 Palestinian lives, including over 1,000 children and women. On the Israeli side, the death toll surpasses 1,400.
Furthermore, President Biden supported Israel’s account of the unfortunate incident at the al-Ahli al-Arab Hospital in Gaza. This event marked the deadliest strike in the current conflict, claiming at least 471 Palestinian civilians. This incident stirred immense resentment in the Muslim community, leading to the cancellation of a crucial summit in Amman. This summit was poised to be a pivotal diplomatic gathering during President Biden’s Middle East tour.
Previously, a prominent newspaper highlighted the apprehension among several Biden administration officials. They felt constrained from advocating for moderation in Israel’s actions in Gaza. Another report from Middle East Eye suggested that the administration’s choice of words regarding a ceasefire was unsettling for progressive legislators and peace advocates.
Currently, the Biden administration is formulating a significant foreign aid proposal, earmarking $10 billion for Israel. Alongside this, the U.S. has mobilized two carrier strike groups to the Eastern Mediterranean and is preparing 2,000 U.S. soldiers for potential deployment to back Israel, as it contemplates a ground incursion into Gaza.
Paul, in his resignation letter, voiced his concerns, “I find it challenging to support major policy choices, including supplying more weapons to one party in the conflict. I see these decisions as myopic, harmful, unfair, and contrary to the principles we openly champion.”
In his conversation with the news outlet, Paul mentioned his gratitude for being on leave, which allowed him time to reflect and resign. Otherwise, he believes he might have faced termination.
Paul’s decision mirrors those of several U.S. officials who, in 2003, resigned in opposition to the U.S. intervention in Iraq.