Several Muslim leaders in the United States turned down White House-organised iftar dinner to mark the holy month of Ramadan, due to dissatisfaction regarding President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Following the refusal of some invitees, Biden had a toned-down discussion with Muslim leaders. He later shared a small dinner with senior Muslim officials in his administration, alongside First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris along with her husband.
According to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, President Biden chose a meeting with Muslim community leaders instead of a dinner, acknowledging their preference.
An emergency room doctor, Dr. Thaer Ahmad who had recently returned from Gaza, walked out of the meeting early, citing respect for the suffering endured by many and expressing his inability to continue participating.
Ahmad, the only Palestinian-American present, stated the lack of substantive response from President Biden during the meeting.
This year’s event is in sharp contrast with last year’s Eid reception, where President Biden received cheers from attendees. Notable figures like Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, both vocal critics of Biden’s Gaza policy, were in attendance.
Among those who declined, Emgage Action, a Muslim American advocacy group cited objections to Biden’s unalloyed military support for Israel, which they argue has worsened the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Many in the Muslim, Arab, and anti-war communities have expressed dissatisfaction with the administration’s backing of Israel and its military offensive in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties and aggravating a humanitarian crisis in the densely populated region.
The United States remains a leading provider of foreign aid to Israel and has repeatedly vetoed UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire during the Gaza conflict that erupted following Hamas’ attack on Israel in October. The U.S. abstained from a subsequent resolution in late March.
Muslim and anti-war groups held a protest iftar near the White House, gifting out water bottles, dates and other refreshments to break the fast at sunset.