U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have extended their greetings to Americans celebrating Eid ul-Fitr, as well as Muslims around the world.
In a message issued on March 18, President Trump said that Eid ul-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, brings together Muslim families, friends, and communities in honor of their spiritual devotion at the end of Ramadan. He also noted that the occasion reflects the fundamental American principle of religious liberty, which his administration strives to uphold every day.
“We offer our warmest greetings for a blessed Eid al-Fitr to all who celebrate,” the message stated.
It is worth noting that while it has been customary for U.S. presidents to send Eid greetings to Muslims worldwide, President Trump did not issue any such messages for two consecutive Eids last year. Eid al-Adha was observed globally, including in the United States, on June 6 last year, but no official message was released on that occasion. Similarly, despite hosting a grand iftar and dinner at the White House during Ramadan, no Eid al-Fitr message was issued last year.
Traditionally, U.S. presidents send greetings to mark the major Islamic festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha each year, but last year marked a departure from that norm.
Recognizing the significance of Ramadan, President Trump hosted an elaborate iftar and dinner at the White House on March 27 last year, marking the occasion of Laylat al-Qadr. Welcoming guests at the event, he said, “Ramadan Mubarak,” and added, “The Muslim community stood with us in November. As long as I am president, I will stand with you.” Prominent Muslim American leaders, government officials, and international diplomats attended the event.
During his first term in office, President Trump had first issued Eid al-Fitr greetings on May 23, 2020, ahead of the Eid celebrated in the U.S. on May 24 that year. In a statement released by his office, he expressed hope that Muslims around the world would find comfort and strength through prayer and devotion.
He also reflected on the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that during those unprecedented times, people relied on faith, family, and friends for guidance and support.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month-long Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and engage in spiritual reflection and religious observances.
President Trump added that now more than ever, religion brings hope, peace, inspiring love, and unity into people’s lives, and he extended his heartfelt wishes for a blessed and joyful Eid al-Fitr.