White House Hosts Scaled-Down Iftar Dinner for Ramadan
White House Celebrates Ramadan with Scaled-Down Iftar Dinner
The White House hosted a scaled-down iftar dinner to celebrate Islam’s holy month of Ramadan. Some invitees declined due to frustrations in the Muslim community over the president’s policy toward the Israel-Gaza war.
President Biden Meets with Muslim Leaders
President Joe Biden met with Muslim leaders before having a small dinner with senior Muslim officials in his administration, First Lady Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and her husband.
Format Adjustment by the White House
The White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, stated that the White House adjusted the format of the event to be responsive to the community’s concerns. Instead of a dinner, the leaders preferred a meeting to discuss important issues.
Response from Attendees
Dr. Thaer Ahmad, an emergency room doctor who spent time in Gaza, walked out of the meeting before it ended, citing respect for his community and those impacted by the conflict. He expressed disappointment with the lack of response from President Biden.
Contrast to Previous Events
This year’s event differed significantly from last year when President Biden hosted a reception for Eid. Muslim members of Congress who attended that event now criticize the administration’s Gaza policy.
Protest Plans
Emgage Action declined an invitation to the dinner, citing concerns over U.S. military aid to Israel. Muslim and anti-war groups plan a protest iftar in Lafayette Park near the White House to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
