Staff Reports
President Joe Biden, on his journey to the Middle East, met with high-ranking Israeli officials this week. While he made it abundantly clear that the United States will stand with Israel forever, this unwavering support has pushed one State Department figure to call it quits.
State Department official resigns, citing ‘destructive’ decisions in Israel-Hamas war https://t.co/BBVjpT2en3
— POLITICO (@politico) October 19, 2023
Josh Paul, who worked at the State Department Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, announced his resignation on Wednesday. He cited his objection to the Biden administration’s decision of increasing military aid to Israel following a brutal attack by the Iranian-backed terror group Hamas, which caused the deaths of approximately 1,400 people. Paul expressed his disagreement with this policy by stating that he can no longer work in support of decisions that he believes are shortsighted, destructive, unjust, and contradictory to the values America holds dear.
It’s disheartening to witness a former official choosing to walk away from his responsibilities because of his disagreement with the provisions of lethal arms to Israel. Rather than recognizing the importance of supporting an ally in the face of terrorism, it seems that Paul has succumbed to confirmation bias, political convenience, and intellectual bankruptcy. It’s disappointing but not surprising to see this kind of bureaucratic inertia and lack of understanding of the reality on the ground when it comes to terrorism and national security.
In addition to Paul’s departure, Capitol Hill was swarmed by pro-Palestinian demonstrators who disrupted the Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing for Jack Lew, the nominee for the position of U.S. ambassador to Israel. This mob mentality displayed by the protesters undermines the democratic process and the ability of elected officials to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
It is essential to recognize the need to strengthen our relationship with Israel, a vital ally in the volatile Middle East. Providing them with increased military aid is not only strategically sound but also morally justified. The fight against terrorism, whether it be Iranian-backed or otherwise, requires a united front with unwavering support for our allies. It is disappointing that some individuals in our government have chosen to abandon this duty for personal reasons and misguided ideology. We must prioritize the safety and security of our nation and its allies over political posturing and appeasing those who wish to undermine our values.
