Quick Update from our Policy Bureau
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MPAC Requests Investigation into Potential War Crimes Committed by Americans Serving in IDF
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The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) has formally requested an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) into potential violations of the War Crimes Act (18 U.S.C. § 2441) by American citizens who have joined and actively participated in operations of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza.
According to reports, since October 7th, at the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the IDF has killed close to 41,000 Gazans. However, the Lancet medical journal published findings that suggest that the number could be as high as 186,000.
In June, a UN Commission shared its findings, stating:
"Israeli authorities are responsible for the war crimes of starvation as a method of warfare, murder or wilful killing, intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects, forcible transfer, sexual violence, torture…"
The IDF has committed these atrocities using American tax dollars, intelligence, and weapons, along with the peace of mind of the United States will provide diplomatic cover for their crimes. Moreover, the IDF has relied on the more than 23,000 Americans currently serving in its ranks.
In a letter addressed to Ms. Katrina W. Berger, Executive Associate Director of Homeland Security Investigations, we outlined grave concerns regarding the involvement of American citizens in war crimes committed by the IDF. Reports of indiscriminate shelling and airstrikes, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and attacks on medical personnel and facilities underscore these concerns. The letter also highlights instances of torture, sexual assault, and rape that have been reported in connection with IDF operations.
MPAC has urged Homeland Security Investigations to carry out its responsibility, investigate these serious allegations, and ensure that Americans who have violated the War Crimes Act are held accountable.
The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), also offers a tip line for anyone to call and report information that might help their investigations. This can be an important tool for our community as we can share information about the abuses and war crimes being committed in Gaza.
They can be reached at 877-447-4847.
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Tuesday's debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump failed to address the majority of Americans who continue to demand a ceasefire. It was at times a chaotic display that demeaned and disrespected the thousands of lives lost in Gaza since October 7th. While Vice President Harris called for an immediate end to the war, she doubled down on the Biden administration’s policy of shipping weapons to a regime killing Palestinian families every day. President Trump launched into a bizarre tirade about “blowing up” a region rather than offering any serious statement or solution to the violence.
Just days after Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old Turkish-American citizen, was executed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) during a peaceful protest, neither candidate chose to say her name. And despite the Biden administration’s executive order to sanction those who kill civilians in Gaza, there was no mention of enforcing this commitment.
Read full statement→
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MPAC President, Salam Al-Marayati publishes op ed in the Chicago Sun Times
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Will Muslim American voters prove a critical constituency in the US election?
"When it came to Israel and Gaza, then you saw the true colors of many of these politicians, and that they never really respected us to begin with.” — MPAC President Salam Al-Marayati
Read the full op ed →
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What's Happening on the Hill?
Statement: MPAC Condemns Anti-Immigrant and Anti-Muslim Riots in the United Kingdom Following Southport Tragedy
The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) expresses profound concern over the recent surge in anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim riots across the United Kingdom. These violent protests erupted following a tragic stabbing incident on Monday, July 29, in Southport, England, which resulted in the death of three children and left 12 children and two adults in critical condition. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the affected families during this challenging time.
Read our full statement→
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In Memory of the Children of Palestine: A Call for Justice and Accountability
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In one of the deadliest strikes since the conflict began, Israel bombed the Tabeen school in Gaza City as they rose for morning prayers, brutally killing nearly 100 people, including women, children, and the elderly, in what can only be described as a massacre.
Following the attack, the Biden administration issued a statement expressing “deep concern,” yet on the very day the world learned of this tragedy, they approved $3.5 billion in military aid to Israel, including new weapon shipments. The timing was damning—on the day an Israeli missile obliterated a school-turned-shelter, the U.S. reaffirmed its support for Israel’s military actions...
Read our full article→
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The Human Cost of Silence: The World Has Failed Sudan
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August 19 marked World Humanitarian Day, commemorating and celebrating the humanitarian workers who work on the frontlines to bring assistance to vulnerable populations around the world. 2023 was a record year for fatalities of aid workers, with 280 reported in 33 countries. Almost 10 percent of these humanitarian workers were killed in Sudan.
Sudan is home to archaeological sites, Islamic scholarship, ethnic diversity, and is the cultural melting pot of African and Arab cultures. Its people have a beautiful history of resilience and revolution, seen in gaining independence from the United Kingdom and Anglo-Egyptian colonization.
After 30 years under the Omar al Bashir dictatorship, people took to the streets protesting the government in 2019, sparking a revolution that led to the fall of this regime...
Read our full article→
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Policy Failures and Paths Forward: Addressing Syria’s Humanitarian Crisis
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In the heart of the Middle East lies a nation composed of more displaced refugees than permanent residents – Syria. A land steeped in vast historical and cultural influence now grapples with the devastating consequences of a war raging for far too long.
The once bustling streets are now eerily quiet, punctuated by the haunting sound of bombardment. Historic cities such Aleppo and Homs lie in ruins and their iconic landmarks, the world’s largest and most ancient organized market (Al Madina Souq), are left in shambles. The historic sites of the past can be rebuilt, but the harrowing loss of its innocent civilians cannot, and its rich culture nears extinction with each passing day...
Read our full article→
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Announcing the 2024 MPAC Empowering Voices Awards!
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Join us on Wednesday, November 13th in Washington, D.C. as we present Senator Bernie Sanders with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Senator Sanders, a long-time ally of the American Muslim community, has consistently championed our shared values. He opposed President Trump’s Muslim Ban and stood as a strong critic of President Biden’s support for Israel’s ongoing siege of Gaza. His support for student protests against Israel’s actions on college campuses has been particularly inspiring as they face unfounded accusations of antisemitism.
Tickets are on sale NOW! More details on programming and additional honorees will be announced soon.
Purchase tickets→
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Ballots Against Bias: Countering Anti-Muslim Hate
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In partnership with LA vs. Hate, we invite you to join us for a transformative symposium dedicated to tackling anti-Muslim hate. With three dynamic policy forums, we will delve into the root causes of Islamophobia, its harmful effect on our communities, and the power of your vote as a tool for change.
This event isn’t just a discussion—it’s a call to action. We’re bringing together experts, advocates, and community members like yourself to explore actionable solutions and help reshape the narrative on the Muslim identity in America.
Tickets are on sale NOW—don’t miss out!
Purchase tickets→
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Calling all future leaders! Summer 2025 apps are open! Fast track your career by applying for our Congressional Leadership Development Program, an intensive summer program valued at $10K that puts you in the room with lawmakers and influencers. Applications are open now!
Learn more and apply→
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Announcing new leadership team and support staff
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To lead us into a exciting new chapter, we are thrilled to introduce our new dynamic leadership team, whose experience, passion, and dedication to MPAC’s mission will help us reach new heights.
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Strong leadership thrives with a dedicated team, and we’re excited to welcome new support staff who will be essential in advancing our strategic vision. Their diverse skills, fresh perspectives, and commitment to MPAC's mission will strengthen our efforts in policy, media, and community engagement.
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