Biden declines meeting with Muslim critics of Gaza policy

U.S. President Joe Biden has refused to engage with Muslim American advocates critical of his stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict

The decision came ahead of a meeting with a group of Muslim Americans.

Some activists had urged a boycott to protest what they perceive as unwavering support for actions labeled as a “genocide” against Palestinians.

Despite the meeting including prominent figures like Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and Muslim political advocate Wa’el Alzayat, the decision not to meet with those publicly critical of the administration has raised questions.

While there were discussions within the community about attending the meeting, ultimately, the administration’s response has left many dissatisfied, with some calling for concrete action to address the situation in Gaza.

Palestinian Americans, as well as the broader Arab and Muslim community, are grappling with concerns over U.S. support for actions in Gaza that have led to significant loss of life.

Calls for action, not just words, have intensified in light of the ongoing crisis.

The Biden administration’s stance has drawn ire from Muslim and Arab communities, potentially posing electoral challenges for the president in the coming year.

The meeting organized by the White House was originally intended to address rising Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism in the U.S.

But participants took the opportunity to discuss Israel’s actions in Gaza and President Biden’s controversial statements regarding Palestinian casualties.

Critics argue that the limited representation at the meeting raises concerns about the administration’s commitment to genuinely engaging with the Palestinian issue.

Amidst growing dissent, the State Department has witnessed diplomats expressing their objections to the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel, signaling potential shifts in the administration’s stance on the conflict.