President Biden calls for cease-fire in Gaza and more humanitarian aid during Ramadan
President Biden marked the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan by calling for a cease-fire in Gaza and more humanitarian aid for the territory. In a statement released Sunday night, Biden expressed his concern for the Palestinian people who have suffered “terrible suffering” during the ongoing conflict.
Biden noted that more than 30,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians including thousands of children, have been killed in the war. Additionally, nearly two million people have been displaced and are in need of food, water, and shelter.
The President’s comments come at a time when many American Muslims are grieving for family members who have been killed in Gaza. Biden’s statement also carries political significance, as many Arab Americans oppose U.S. support for Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.
In Michigan’s Democratic primary last month, over 100,000 voters registered their ballot as “uncommitted,” signaling discontent over the war among Arab Americans, young voters, and progressives in the battleground state.
Biden reiterated the United States’ commitment to providing aid to Gaza, including airdrops of aid and the construction of a temporary pier on Gaza’s coast. He also stated that the U.S. is working with Israel to expand deliveries of aid by land.
The President pledged to work towards establishing an immediate and sustained cease-fire for at least six weeks, as part of a deal that would release hostages seized during the conflict. Biden also condemned the “appalling resurgence of hate and violence toward Muslim Americans” in his statement.
As the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins, President Biden’s call for a cease-fire and increased humanitarian aid in Gaza highlights the importance of peace, stability, and security in the region.
