USA (Transatlantic Today) – Soon, after 78 years, the United States will break the record. This is no cause for celebration either, because the record relates to the national debt. According to the most recent projection released by the impartial Congressional Budget Office, in 2027, the debt will represent 106.2% of GDP if present trends continue. That would surpass the record-breaking 106.1 percent of GDP in 1946, when the United States had not yet started repaying the massive debt acquired to finance an international war effort and was still in the demobilization phase of World War II.
Resignation underlines internal frustrations
Miller’s resignation, which hadn’t previously been publicly reported, comes amid growing frustration inside and outside the government over the significant civilian casualties in the Gaza conflict. Some officials are concerned that a small group of President Biden’s closest advisers are heavily influencing policy decisions. Miller’s resignation is the highest-profile departure among the U.S. officials focusing on Israeli-Palestinian issues to date.
Impact on the State Department
According to Washingtonpost, Suzanne Maloney, vice president and director of foreign policy at the Brookings Institution, stressed the significance of Miller’s resignation, calling it a notable indicator of the toll the conflict has taken on those addressing its security implications. Miller was known for his principled support of Palestinian rights and statehood and his nuanced understanding of Middle East affairs.
Career and Contributions
Before his role in Israeli-Palestinian affairs, Miller served as a senior policy adviser to the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and as director for Egypt and Israel military issues on the White House National Security Council during the Obama administration. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller acknowledged Andrew Miller’s extensive experience and sharp perspective, expressing regret over his departure.
Challenges in Policy Influence
Middle East expert Aaron David Miller described Andrew Miller as a smart and creative diplomat but highlighted the challenges faced by the State Department’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs in influencing policy. Despite the bureau’s efforts, officials have struggled to make a significant impact on U.S. policy regarding the Gaza conflict.
Controversial Gaza Policy
The Israeli military campaign in Gaza has resulted in over 37,000 Palestinian deaths, according to local health authorities, and has divided U.S. government officials on the appropriate response. President Biden initially supported Israel, providing weapons and diplomatic backing, even as Israel’s tactics drew criticism. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s actions have often ignored U.S. demands for a more measured approach.
Limited Resignations Amid Policy Discontent
Despite the deep divisions over Gaza policy, there have been only a few resignations across federal agencies, including the State Department and the Pentagon. Some officials have faced email campaigns urging protest resignations related to the conflict.
Progressive Yet Pragmatic
A U.S. official familiar with Andrew Miller described him as progressive on Middle East issues, including Israel-Palestine, but also pragmatic. Miller believed that the U.S. could have leveraged its influence over Israel more effectively and advocated for Palestinian rights and statehood in a quiet and measured manner.
Surprising Departure
Miller’s resignation came as a surprise to many within the State Department. A senior official highlighted Miller’s strong support for Israel’s security and his commitment to combating antisemitism. His ability to appeal to various sides of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute made his departure notable within the department.
