US Government Faces Internal and External Challenges in Response to Israel-Hamas Conflict

The State Department is rushing to address internal criticism from its workforce over the Biden administration's approach to the Israel-Hamas war. Senior officials have held listening sessions for diplomats serving in six U.S. embassies in the Middle East and North Africa, and at least one cable has been submitted to the department's Dissent Channel. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has personally met with the authors of the cable and regularly solicits differing viewpoints. The department has also held virtual town hall meetings and set up support groups to address concerns and provide mental health resources.