US Diplomat Antony Blinken Addresses Toll of Mideast Crisis on Staff Amid Israel-Gaza Tensions

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the toll of the Israel-Hamas conflict on US diplomats in a letter to State Department employees. While expressing unwavering support for Israel, Blinken recognized the emotional impact on diplomats and the "ripples of fear and bigotry" generated by the conflict. The letter comes amid reports of internal dissent within the department, with at least one official resigning over policy disagreements. Blinken emphasized the need to respect the rule of law and international humanitarian standards, while also encouraging debate and dissent within the institution.