Over 100 staff members of the United States Department of Homeland Security have signed a letter to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas expressing their concerns about the department’s handling of the war in Gaza. The letter, dated November 22, criticizes the leadership for failing to respond to the bombing of refugee camps, hospitals, and civilians in Gaza. It also highlights fear of backlash, with some staff members choosing to sign the letter anonymously.
This letter is the latest in a series of internal criticisms within the Biden administration over its stance on the Gaza war. Calls for an immediate ceasefire and concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza have been expressed by officials from various government agencies. However, President Biden has maintained unwavering support for Israel, while Secretary Mayorkas denounced the impact of terrorist attacks in Israel but did not mention the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Amid warnings of a potential genocide in Gaza, some DHS officials express disappointment with the government’s response and a sense of moral obligation to act. The letter calls for actions in Gaza consistent with past responses to humanitarian tragedies, including the creation of a humanitarian parole program for Palestinians and the designation of temporary protected status for residents of the Palestinian territories. However, political considerations and challenges related to the recognition of Palestine as a foreign state have hindered these efforts.
The letter also highlights concerns about the Biden administration’s immigration policies and its focus on the southern border. Many officials feel demoralized and question the department’s sense of mission, expressing a desire for more meaningful action.