Andrew Miller, the deputy assistant secretary of state for Israeli-Palestinian affairs, has resigned from his position, citing the impact of the ongoing war on Gaza on his family life. Miller was a critic of President Joe Biden’s handling of the conflict, which he believed was too soft on Israel. He was a strong supporter of Palestinian rights and statehood and had advocated for the US to use its leverage over the Israeli government to push for a more balanced approach.
Miller’s resignation marks the departure of the most senior official with a role in Israeli-Palestinian policy-making. At least eight other Biden administration officials have left their positions in protest of the war in Gaza and the president’s refusal to criticize Israel’s actions. Miller’s departure is seen as a significant blow to the administration’s efforts to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
According to a US official, Miller pushed for the US to use its significant military, economic, political, and diplomatic support for Israel more effectively to pressure the government to cease its aggression in Gaza. Despite his progressive views on the issue, Miller was not a radical figure and advocated for a measured approach that would support Palestinian rights and statehood while maintaining good relations with Israel.
The State Department confirmed Miller’s departure in a statement, expressing appreciation for his service and wishing him well in his future endeavors. Miller’s resignation is a sign of growing dissent within the administration over its handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and may put additional pressure on President Biden to reevaluate his approach.