Protest Against Biden’s Support for Israel’s Actions in Gaza Leads to Event’s Scrapping
In a surprising turn of events, the White House has called off its planned Ramadan iftar gathering following a wave of protest from Muslim Americans. The cancellation came after numerous members of the Muslim community declined the invitation in protest of President Joe Biden’s support of Israel’s actions in Gaza, according to two sources familiar with the situation.
Insiders, speaking on the condition of anonymity, disclosed that the decision to cancel the iftar occurred on Tuesday after leaders were cautioned by members of the Muslim community against attending the White House event. Edward Ahmed Mitchell, the deputy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), confirmed that the event was scrapped due to a significant number of individuals choosing not to participate, even among those who had initially accepted the invitation.
“The American Muslim community made it clear early on that it would be unacceptable for us to dine with the same White House that is supporting the Israeli government’s actions against the Palestinian people in Gaza,” Mitchell emphasized.
Earlier reports from CNN and NPR on Monday had indicated that the White House was planning a small community iftar. However, on Tuesday, the White House announced a change in plans. Instead of the larger event, they will host a meal exclusively for Muslim government staffers. Additionally, a separate meeting with a select few Muslim American community representatives is being arranged.
The cancellation of the iftar gathering underscores the deep-seated concerns within the Muslim American community regarding the Biden administration’s stance on the conflict in Gaza. This move reflects the growing tension and calls for accountability in U.S. policy toward the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
