State Dept. human rights staffer quits over Biden’s Gaza policy
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Annelle Sheline, a State Department official working on human rights issues in the Middle East, resigned in protest of U.S. support for Israel's war in Gaza. Sheline had been promoting human rights in the Middle East and North Africa but found it impossible to advocate for human rights while the U.S. continued to send weapons to Israel. Her resignation is the most significant protest resignation of the Gaza conflict since the exit of a senior State Department official involved in arms transfers to foreign governments. Sheline's departure highlights dissent among government personnel over Israel policy. Despite the dissent, the Biden administration has maintained its military support for Israel's campaign in Gaza. Sheline's former bureau, the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, has faced scrutiny from some members of Congress wary of any part of the U.S. government that might criticize Israel. Sheline's resignation has led to questions about the Biden administration's priorities and its support for Israel over other significant priorities. Sheline's work promoting human rights in the Middle East has become nearly impossible due to the continued flow of U.S. arms to Israel, which has angered partners in the region. Sheline had planned to stay on at the State Department but changed her mind due to the ongoing conflict. She plans to work on a book based on her academic research. Sheline acknowledges the financial risk of quitting but believes in the mission and values of the State Department.
#StateDepartment #HumanRights #Gaza #Israel #BidenAdministration