The New York Times delves into the strained relationship between President Biden and Muslim leaders in America amidst his stricter stance on Israel’s conflict with Hamas.
Biden’s recent announcement to withhold weapons from Israel in case of an invasion of Rafah, Hamas’ stronghold in Gaza, drew attention. However, Muslim and Arab American leaders view it as too little, too late.
Michigan-based activist Abbas Alawieh criticized the delay, emphasizing the need for a firm stance against the war.
Osama Siblani, publisher of The Arab American News, expressed frustration, advising White House officials not to engage further without substantial progress.
Though Biden aides have engaged in listening sessions with Muslim leaders, there’s a sense that dialogue is futile without concrete action like calling for a permanent cease-fire.
The Times reports a growing rift between prominent Muslim and Arab Americans and the Biden administration’s foreign policy, with dissatisfaction over being urged to support Biden solely as an alternative to Trump.
Concerns arise about the impact of this strained relationship on Biden’s reelection prospects, particularly given protests in Democratic primaries and Michigan.
Despite the existence of a liaison to American Muslim communities in the White House, there’s no equivalent role in the Biden campaign.
Mazen Basrawi, the White House liaison, apologized for the communication lapses during a meeting with Dearborn leaders. In contrast, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meetings with Arab American groups have been delayed.
Wa’el Alzayat of Emgage declined a White House dinner invitation, citing disappointment over policy outcomes not matching Democratic support.
While acknowledging Biden’s pivot on Israel as promising, Alzayat doubts its impact given the ongoing military operations.
Some Muslim leaders, like Wa’el Alzayat, chief of the Muslim activist group Emgage, turned down a White House dinner invitation last month, expressing their dissatisfaction over the lack of policy outcomes matching Democratic support.
Despite Biden’s pivot on Israel being viewed as promising by some, there are concerns that it might not be enough to halt ongoing military operations like those in Rafah.
The strained relationship between Biden and Muslim leaders underscores broader tensions within the Democratic Party regarding its approach to foreign policy in the Middle East.
As Biden’s reelection campaign gears up, the administration faces the challenge of reconciling with disillusioned Muslim and Arab American voters while maintaining support from other constituencies.
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