Antony Blinken's Secret Meeting with Officials Opposing U.S. Gaza Policy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a private meeting with a group of State Department officials who have formally protested President Joe Biden's approach to the Israel-Hamas war. The meeting, which took place on October 26, reflects internal frustration at the State Department over the perception that Biden has disregarded officials' national security expertise and bypassed normal consultation processes. While Blinken has previously welcomed dissent and diversity of opinions, officials have expressed concerns that their views are unlikely to shift U.S. policy. The Biden administration has shown some public concern with Israel's conduct in its Gaza offensive but has not indicated a reduction in support. Blinken recently told Israeli counterparts that a "humanitarian pause" would help the U.S. continue to defend and back Israel's ground operation in Gaza.