Former Deputy Secretary Wendy Sherman Asserts Netanyahu Policies Contributed to Gaza Genocide Before Softening Rhetoric

Former US Deputy Secretary Wendy Sherman claims Netanyahu’s policies created a genocide in Gaza before clarifying her remarks. Read the full editorial analysis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 6:19 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

High Ranking Diplomat Breaks Official Silence on Gaza Conduct

Wendy Sherman, the former Deputy Secretary of State under the Biden administration, has sparked intense debate by directly linking Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the perpetration of genocide. Speaking on a Bloomberg program, Sherman articulated a sharp critique of the current Israeli leadership, suggesting that the strategic direction taken during the conflict has had devastating consequences. Her comments represent a stark departure from the carefully measured language typically maintained by executive branch officials during and after their tenure.

A Balancing Act Between Alliance and Accusation

During her discussion with interviewer Mishal Husain, Sherman emphasized the continued importance of the bilateral relationship between Washington and Jerusalem. She stated that it remains critical for Israel to stay a primary ally of the United States, underscoring a commitment to the protection of a Jewish state. However, she juxtaposed this support with the assertion that the Prime Minister’s actions have destabilized the Middle East, claiming that the U.S. has been a part of a process that essentially resulted in genocide within the Gaza Strip.

Nuance and Retraction Following Initial Allegations

Following her initial forceful statement, Sherman appeared to recalibrate her stance regarding the specific legal definition of the term genocide. She clarified that she could not provide a definitive legal analysis on whether the situation literally met that criteria. Despite this walk-back, she maintained that the destruction of Gaza was undeniable, advocating for Palestinian dignity and a permanent home while simultaneously acknowledging Israel’s fundamental requirement for security and peace in the region.