1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to reassess the United States’ role in supporting Israel’s assault on Gaza—a crisis that recently led former U.S. diplomat Hala Rharrit to resign. In her interview with Democracy Now on October 23, 2024, Rharrit described the situation as an “unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” systematically depriving millions of Palestinians of basic survival needs. Her words underscore the grave moral implications of U.S. support for Israel’s actions, a stance that contradicts our values and responsibilities. Rharrit shared, “Gaza has been reduced to rubble, with children and families living in unimaginable conditions.” She described Israel’s targeting of essential infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and homes, leaving civilians in dire need, without access to water, electricity, or medical care. Despite these conditions, the U.S. continues to provide Israel with financial and military backing, funding a campaign widely condemned by international human rights organizations. Rharrit’s resignation speaks volumes. She said, “I could no longer represent a government that refuses to acknowledge the human cost of its policies in Gaza.” Her decision reflects a moral stance against the devastating effects of U.S.-backed actions on Palestinian lives. This moment signals that our country’s policies are not only misguided but dangerously complicit in a strategy that sacrifices innocent lives under the guise of security. I urge you to call for an immediate cessation of military aid to Israel until it abides by international law, halts its campaign in Gaza, and opens channels for humanitarian aid. By continuing this support, our government endorses a crisis devastating Palestinian families and eroding our moral standing. Now is the time for elected officials to act with integrity and prioritize justice over complicity in human suffering. The world is watching, and so are your constituents, who demand an ethical, human-centered approach to foreign policy. We will remember those who acted to end this catastrophe—and those who enabled it. (https://www.democracynow.org/2024/10/23/hala_rharrit_gaza_us_policy)