As tensions between Israel and Hamas continue to escalate, reports have surfaced that members of the Muslim community are considering withholding their support for President Biden due to his stance on the conflict and his support for Israel. In response to this, the Biden administration has launched a new effort to “counter Islamophobia” and is reportedly warning Israel that their actions may lead to eroding support.
According to CNN, President Biden, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have all privately raised concerns with the Israeli government about their military operations and the impact it may have on support for Israel. The administration has warned that eroding support could have dire strategic consequences for Israel Defense Forces operations against Hamas.
These warnings come just days after a group of Muslim leaders wrote a letter to Biden and Democratic Party leadership, vowing to withhold voter support for any candidate who does not advocate for a ceasefire. The group cited the importance of key states with large Muslim populations and emphasized their ability to mobilize voters to make their voices heard.
In response to these concerns, Vice President Kamala Harris announced a National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia, stating that “taking on hate is a national priority.” This strategy comes as a part of the administration’s efforts to combat a surge of hate in America.
However, the Biden administration’s actions have come under scrutiny, as they have been accused of cozying up to Iran, a country that is intimately involved with Israel’s enemies such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Former Special Envoy to Iran Robert Malley has also come under fire after being under criminal investigation by the FBI for his handling of classified documents and his alleged ties to an “Iranian spy ring.”
Most recently, the administration has faced criticism for unfreezing $6 billion worth of frozen Iranian assets, with critics asserting that the money is fungible and could potentially be funneled to terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused widespread devastation and loss of life. The Biden administration has faced pressure from both sides to take a stronger stance on the issue and address the root causes of the conflict.
In light of these developments, the Committee on Oversight and Accountability has launched an investigation into the administration’s efforts to conceal details about its ongoing secret nuclear negotiations with Iran and their lack of transparency.
As the conflict continues and tensions rise, it remains to be seen how the Biden administration will navigate this delicate situation and address the concerns of the Muslim community while standing strong in their support for Israel.