Washington, D.C. | www.mpac.org | January 16, 2024 — The Biden administration marked in a statement this week “a devastating and tragic milestone —100 days of captivity for the more than 100 innocent people, including as many as 6 Americans, who are still being held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.” In doing so, President Biden completely disregarded the ongoing assault on Gaza that has resulted in the death of over 24,000 Palestinians, of which the overwhelming majority are women and children.

Protests in support of Palestinian human rights have erupted nationwide. As the world watches in horror, the ongoing genocide in Gaza raises concerns about the Biden administration’s apparent disregard for Israel’s ongoing human rights violations and American complicity in this conflict. 

Israel has been a longtime ally of the U.S., and President Biden has asserted its right to defend itself against Hamas. MPAC is deeply troubled that while the administration has made efforts to broker a ceasefire, Biden has also utilized his presidential authority to provide military aid to Israel amidst its ongoing relentless attacks on civilians in Gaza, all while the Middle East is on the precipice of a regional war. 

The Biden administration's unwavering support for the Israeli government aligns the United States with a regime accused of perpetuating apartheid and committing gross human rights violations. This unflinching backing has raised concerns about the United States' commitment to upholding principles of democracy, including equality, justice, and human dignity amidst this conflict.

By maintaining this position, the United States risks being complicit in the oppression and genocide of Palestinians, undermining its credibility as a defender of human rights on the global stage. The human catastrophe unfolding in Gaza serves as a reminder of the involvement of the U.S. in the war crimes that have been brought to light by South African lawmakers against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ). It also undermines the foundation of international law and upholding it in places like Gaza.

At this moment, we see Americans, particularly young people, rising up in support of Palestine. MPAC urges the Biden administration to consider the dire consequences of its military support for Israel and its negative impact on the American Muslim and Arab communities who endure intimidation and silencing under the guise of patriotism. As we mark the 100th day of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, MPAC also urges the administration to uphold the human rights of the Palestinian people and call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.