Washington, DC, April 1, 2024 – The Gaza Palestinian American Association (GPAA) voices its profound concern regarding the White House’s Ramadan iftar invitation to Arab and Muslim leaders this week, particularly considering the ongoing genocide and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As an organization dedicated to preserving Gaza Palestinians’ culture and advocating for their justice, peace, and rights, we are deeply troubled by the current administration’s involvement and complicity in the ongoing crisis. The administration’s failure to acknowledge its role in these dire conditions and its dismissive response to community concerns, including calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian aid, and the cessation of substantial military support to Israel, is deplorable.
We witness with dismay the suffering endured by our relatives in Gaza – displacement, dispossession, and unimaginable violence – all while our tax contributions and the tacit approval of the Biden Administration perpetuate this cycle of suffering. At this juncture, extending an iftar invitation is not only insensitive but also emblematic of disregard to our community.
We implore Arab and Muslim leaders to reflect on the potential repercussions of their participation in the White House iftar. Such attendance could inadvertently convey support for policies that oppress Palestinians and exacerbate the crisis in Gaza. Instead, we urge leaders to elevate and center Palestinian voices, advocate for their rights on global platforms, and respectfully decline the invitation, accompanied by a statement explaining their decision to maintain pressure on the administration.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Reem Al-Dadah
Official Spokesperson
Gaza Palestinian American Association
media@gpaa.us