US, Canada extend Ramadan greetings, emphasize religious freedom

2026-02-17 - 23:32

The United States and Canada released statements Tuesday welcoming the start of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection, with both leaders emphasizing religious freedom and the values shared across faith communities. President Donald Trump described Ramadan as "a reverent season of spiritual renewal, reflective meditation, and appreciation for God's countless blessings," extending greetings to all those celebrating in America and worldwide. Trump's Message of Unity and Faith In his statement, Trump highlighted the importance of prayer and fasting in strengthening familial and community ties, affirming "our shared values of compassion, charity, mercy, and humility." He emphasized that "the God-given right to freely worship is a hallmark of our Nation and a pillar of our prosperity and strength," offering prayers for "happiness and fulfillment at home, unity and peace throughout the world, and blessings in the year to come." Carney's Call to Combat Islamophobia Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a parallel greeting, noting that Muslims in Canada and globally would begin observing Ramadan at sundown. He described the month as "a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration," where families gather for prayer and break their daily fast with iftar meals. Acknowledging continued acts of Islamophobia against Canadian Muslims, Carney declared that "combatting hate is a top priority for this government, and Islamophobia has no place in our country," affirming that "everyone has the right to freedom, security, and the ability to thrive in our society." Ramadan Dates and Observance Across the World Several Arab and Muslim countries will welcome Ramadan on Wednesday, while others begin fasting a day later based on moon sightings and astronomical calculations. Muslims in Türkiye, Oman, Singapore, and Australia will begin fasting on Thursday after authorities confirmed the start of the holy month. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by approximately 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide through daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, charitable giving, and community gatherings—traditions that both leaders honored in their messages marking the occasion.