The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is urging the Senate to reject a House amendment that aims to end funding for President Joe Biden’s decision to delay deportation orders for Palestinians. Sponsored by Rep. Andy Ogles, the contentious amendment narrowly passed the House with a slim vote of 204-203 on June 26. Critics, including Rep. Lauren Underwood, argue that deporting Palestinians could put them in danger, particularly in the midst of the Gaza humanitarian crisis. CAIR’s Government Affairs Department Coordinator, Shafiquil Muhshna, strongly condemned the amendment, warning of the potential life-threatening consequences for Palestinians if they were forced to return.
President Biden’s executive order aimed to shield around 6,000 Palestinians from immediate deportation, recognizing the dire circumstances in Gaza. CAIR asserts that sending Palestinians back under current conditions would be not only inhumane but also possibly deadly.