CNN has reported that Andrew Miller, the senior State Department official responsible for the Israeli and Palestinian portfolio, is set to leave his position in the coming days. Sources familiar with his departure stated that Miller is leaving for personal reasons as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate.
Miller’s departure comes at a time when the Biden administration is growing increasingly frustrated with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel’s handling of the war. Despite defending the country on the international stage, the administration is expressing its concerns about the situation.
According to sources, Miller has informed State Department leadership that he plans to leave at the end of June due to feeling burned out and wanting to spend more time with his family. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller expressed regret over Andrew Miller’s departure, praising his expertise and dedication to his work.
The Washington Post was the first to report on Miller’s impending departure. Miller, who has significant experience in the region, previously served as the Director for Egypt and Israel Military Issues at the National Security Council during the Obama administration.
While several US government employees have publicly resigned in protest over the handling of the war, Miller is not believed to be leaving for the same reason. One such diplomat, Stacy Gilbert, recently resigned in protest of the administration’s report that claimed Israel was not obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Miller’s role became increasingly critical following Hamas’ attack in October. He played a key role in the Biden administration’s executive order imposing sanctions on individuals and groups involved in settler violence in the West Bank. Additionally, he advocated for equal treatment of Palestinian-Americans in the visa waiver program for Israelis.
Furthermore, Miller assisted in the successful evacuation of the mother and uncle of an American service member from Gaza during the conflict. He has a wealth of experience in Middle East affairs, having previously served in various roles under both the Obama and Biden administrations.
Miller’s departure marks a significant loss for the State Department as it navigates the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict and seeks to uphold US interests in the region.
