A Muslim organization invited the local interfaith group to sign a statement calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. None in the group responded.
Another Muslim group asked its interfaith partners to hold a joint press conference calling for peace in the occupied land. They refused and threatened to condemn the Muslim group if the conference called to condemn Israeli action.
Interfaith groups, by and large, through their silence, endorsed the apartheid state policies of subjugating the Palestinians in the land they have lived for centuries.
One can understand the position of Jewish Rabbis, most of whom support the Zionist state and, despite their claim to project Judaism as a faith that stands for justice, remain blind to the occupation and terror perpetuated by Israel.
But what about Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Mormons, Pagans, and other religious groups?
One can also understand the position of many Upper-caste Hindus, most of whom are supporters of fascist groups such as Hindu Vishwa Parishad or Bajrang Dal, who endorse Israeli assault.
What about other religious groups?
They don't owe their loyalty to the state of Israel or its leading lobbyist, AIPAC. Why are they silent? Are their claims on human rights selective? Do they not consider Palestinians worthy of human dignity? Why have they refused to question the Jewish state for its ongoing crimes in the region?
Was their participation in interfaith forums a farce? Do they believe in pluralism and stand for peace, or do they find Muslims unworthy of living a dignified life?
These are the questions Muslims must ask before hosting interfaith dinners, especially during Ramadan.
Interfaith is not a social event for entertainment. It's a serious effort to stand for justice and peace for all, including Palestinians.
The recent events in the occupied territories have exposed the majority of interfaith groups. These groups have remained silent on Israeli atrocities.
Interfaith is still possible if those involved in it have a genuine commitment to human dignity, human rights, peace, and justice for all.
Suppose Muslim organizations want to host such events. In that case, they should invite and honor those who challenged the apartheid state and stood for the rights of Palestinians to live as full humans in the land where Jesus was persecuted and rejected by his peers.