US President Donald Trump on Thursday hosted the annual Iftar dinner at the White House and expressed gratitude to American Muslims for their support in the November 2024 presidential elections.
“I want to extend a very special thanks to the hundreds of thousands of Muslim-Americans who supported us in record numbers in the 2024 presidential election. It was incredible. We started a little slow with you, but we came along. The Muslim community was there for us in November, and while I’m president, I will be there for you,” Trump said.
“Everyday during the sacred month, the Muslims fast from dawn to dusk deepening their focus on prayer and devotion to God. Then Muslims all over the world join families and friends each night and give thanks to the almighty, break their fast with Iftar dinner. We are all looking for peace for the entire world,” he stated.
Trump highlighted his administration’s diplomatic efforts to establish peace in the Middle East, where conflict between Israel and Hamas has persisted since October 2023. The fighting resumed after a US, Egypt, and Qatar-mediated January ceasefire ended on March 18.
The president expressed his commitment to creating an optimistic future for everyone.
“You have someone in the White House who loves you”, he said.
“Muslims join family friends each night at sundown to give thanks to the Almighty and break their fast with an Iftar dinner. Just like this one. This is what we have tonight. I hope you like it. If you don’t like it, don’t complain, OK? You’re still in the White House,” Trump remarked lightheartedly.
Previously this month, the president extended his “warmest greetings” to Ramadan observers.
The traditional iftar celebration marks the conclusion of daily fasting during Ramadan, culminating in Eid-ul-Fitr. The festival will be celebrated on March 31.