Obama Eid Message Sparks Backlash

Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News, 2014-07-30

A tweet from the White House wishing “Muslims in the US and around the world a blessed and joyous celebration” of Eid has sparked backlash over President Barack Obama’s position on Gaza, where over 100 Palestinians, including several children, were killed in Israeli attacks in less 24 hours.

Earlier, Obama’s statement said: “Muslims throughout the United States and around the world celebrate Eid Al-Fitr, Michelle and I extend our warmest wishes to them and their families.”

“We stand with people of all faiths, here at home and around the world, to protect and advance their rights to prosper, and we welcome their commitment to giving back to their communities.” Obama added.

According to Alarabiya.net, one person Husnain Bukhari (@husnainb) replied on Twitter saying: “Except the ones in Gaza [be]cause they’re too busy getting bombed.”

Semra Akay (@semraakay) tweeted: The ones in #Gaza as well? How hypocrite you are! @WhiteHouse

While Janet Weil (@JanetRWeil) replied to the White House’s tweet saying: “the hypocrisy of the #Obama admin, supporting the genocidal ”self-defense” of #Israel, never ceases to amaze. #GazaUnderAttack.”

This is the second controversy this month involving the White House’s handling of Muslim occasions in relation to the U.S.’s policy in the Middle East.

Last month, during a White House Ifthar for the U.S. Muslim community leaders, President Obama angered some of his guests by reiterating Israel’s right to defend itself, amid the ongoing deadly assault on Gaza.

(Twitter: @Faizie143)

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