"I Couldn't Remain Silent": Annelle Sheline Steps Down from State Department Due to U.S. Gaza Policy

"I Couldn't Remain Silent": Annelle Sheline Steps Down from State Department Due to U.S. Gaza Policy

A State Department official focusing on human rights issues in the Middle East tendered her resignation on Wednesday in protest of the U.S.'s backing of Israel's offensive in Gaza. Annelle Sheline, who served as a foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, had not intended to publicly step down, but her colleagues urged her to "speak out" against the Biden administration's unwavering support for Israel. "Ultimately, many individuals within [the State Department] recognize this as a deplorable policy, and they're astounded that the U.S. government is involved in actions so contrary to American values," remarked Sheline. "However, the leadership isn't receptive." Sheline aims to give voice to the numerous individuals who feel disillusioned by the government's position. Reflecting on the impassioned plea of Aaron Bushnell, the active-duty U.S. airman who self-immolated outside the Israeli Embassy to protest the Gaza conflict, Sheline underscores the urgency of standing against genocide. "As a mother to a young daughter, I contemplate the future and envision her asking, 'Where were you during this period?' I was at the State Department," she reflects. "I want to be able to tell her that I didn't remain silent."


From: Democracy Now