Department of Education Official Resigns, Citing Biden’s Handling of Israel-Hamas Conflict, Palestinian Territory

A Department of Education official has resigned from his position, citing dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s approach to the Israel-Hamas war. Tariq Habash, a policy adviser in the DOE’s Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development, submitted his resignation in a letter to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. Habash expressed concerns over the administration’s failure to prioritize the value of all human life equally and its alleged blindness to the atrocities committed against innocent Palestinians. This resignation follows a similar departure from the administration by former State Department official Josh Paul, who disagreed with the US’s continued lethal assistance to Israel. The conflict, which began with Hamas’ attacks on Israel in October, shows no signs of abating. Habash directly called on President Joe Biden to take immediate action, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and demanding an end to the indiscriminate violence against Palestinians. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with at least 22,000 Palestinians killed according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health. Habash, a Palestinian American, also highlighted the impact of the war on Jewish, Muslim, and Arab students on college campuses in the US, who reportedly feel less safe. The Department of Education has initiated numerous investigations into alleged incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia on campuses. Habash emphasized the importance of the DOE’s role in protecting students and supporting their nonviolent actions, including expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. The article urges readers to consider a global audience and uses language that is clear, concise, and engaging.