The White House altered an Iftar dinner into a meeting on Tuesday evening in response to American Muslim leaders’ frustrations with the administration’s Gaza policy. Originally planned as a dinner, the format was changed after some Muslim leaders declined the invitation due to concerns over the situation in Gaza. Participants felt uncomfortable celebrating while Gaza faced a humanitarian crisis. Vice President Kamala Harris, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, administration officials, and a small group of Muslim community leaders attended the meeting. Some attendees, including Palestinian American physician Thaer Ahmad, left abruptly to express disappointment. This incident highlights strained relations between the Biden administration and the Muslim American community over the Gaza conflict. Emgage Action declined the invitation citing concerns over US military aid to Israel. Participants discussed urgent issues such as aid distribution and violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza. The event’s downsized nature reflects political challenges for the Biden administration, particularly in battleground states like Michigan where Muslim American populations hold sway. The White House acknowledged the sensitivity of the moment, expressing mourning for the loss of innocent lives and commitment to securing a ceasefire and increasing humanitarian aid for Gaza.
