President Joe Biden addressed the grievances of Arab Americans regarding the conflict in Gaza and U.S. support for Israel. In a proclamation for Arab American Heritage Month, Biden acknowledged the pain felt by many in the community, expressing devastation over the suffering inflicted by the war.
Biden’s statement was met with scrutiny as reports surfaced of the U.S. government approving additional arms sales to Israel worth billions of dollars.
Despite calls for a permanent ceasefire and halting weapon sales to Israel from Muslims and Arabs in the U.S., the administration has continued to support Israel, a leading recipient of U.S. foreign aid.
Protests demanding an end to the Gaza conflict have erupted in various U.S. cities, with demonstrators rallying near airports, bridges, and even outside the White House.
Biden’s campaign events have also faced interruptions from activists, signaling growing frustration within the Arab and Muslim American communities.
While Biden pledged to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, free hostages held by Hamas, and establish a six-week ceasefire, his actions have faced criticism.
He highlighted hate crimes targeting Arab Americans, including the tragic incidents involving Palestinian Americans in Illinois, Vermont, and Texas.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with Hamas’ attack on Israel in October, has led to devastating casualties and displacement in Gaza. Despite Israeli tallies reporting 1,200 deaths, the local health ministry in Gaza has recorded over 32,000 fatalities.
The humanitarian crisis has left Gaza’s population on the brink of starvation, prompting accusations of genocide against Israel, which the country denies.
