Biden marks start of Ramadan by recognizing ‘moment of immense pain’ for Muslims

President Biden marked the start of Ramadan on Sunday with a statement recognizing a “moment of immeasurable pain” for many Muslim Americans and pledging to lead an international effort to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“Tonight, as a new crescent moon marks the beginning of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, Jill and I offer our best wishes and prayers to Muslims in our country and around the world,” Biden said in a statement Sunday.

“The holy month is a time of reflection and renewal. This year brings moments of immense pain. The war in Gaza has caused terrible suffering to the Palestinian people,” he added.

Biden acknowledged that more than 30,000 Palestinians are estimated to have been killed in the Gaza operation launched by Israel in response to the October 7 massacre that left about 1,200 Israelis dead and 250 taken hostage. Ta.

Among the Palestinians killed in Gaza were “American Muslim families who are now deeply grieving the loved ones they lost,” Biden wrote.

He also acknowledged that an estimated 2 million Palestinians are displaced and in need of food, water, medicine and shelter, the statement said.

“As Muslims gather from around the world to break their fast in the coming days and weeks, the suffering of the Palestinian people will be on the minds of many. It is on my mind.” He said.

Biden, who has faced harsh criticism from some in the Muslim-American community over his handling of the war in Gaza, said his administration was working to get aid to Gaza, including setting up a temporary pier and coordinating airdrops with other countries. He emphasized the efforts being made. Biden also pledged to continue working with Israel to expand land deliveries, “facilitating more routes and creating more intersections to get more aid to more people.” He insisted on opening it.”

Biden reiterated his commitment to a two-state solution and cited the experiences of Muslim Americans in the United States, who are facing a “resurgence of hatred and violence” against their communities.

He spoke directly to Muslim Americans.

“To Muslims across our country, please know that you are a very important part of the American family,” Biden said in a statement. “To those who are grieving in this time of war, I hear your voice, I see you, and I pray that you find comfort in your faith, your family, and your community. And tonight, as we mark the beginning of Ramadan, I wish everyone a safe, healthy and blessed month. Ramadan Kareem. ”