Trump wishes Muslims 'a joyful Ramadan', urges end to violence

Washington DC (US), May 27 (ANI): U.S. President Donald Trump wished Muslims "a joyful Ramadan," on Friday, urging them to use the holy month to reject violence by the extremists. "On behalf of the American people, I would like to wish all Muslims a joyful Ramadan," said Trump. "This year, the holiday begins as the world mourns the innocent victims of barbaric terrorist attacks in the United Kingdom and Egypt, acts of depravity that are directly contrary to the spirit of Ramadan," said the US leader, who campaigned last year on a pledge to ban Muslims from entering the United States," the White House said in a statement. "Such acts only steel our resolve to defeat the terrorists and their perverted ideology," Trump added. Trump said that when he met dozens of leaders of Muslim countries in the Saudi capital Riyadh, he had vowed to stand with them to counter "terrorism and the ideology that fuels it." "During this month of Ramadan, let us be resolved to spare no measure so that we may ensure that future generations will be free of this scourge and able to worship and commune in peace," said Trump. Trump said at its core, the spirit of Ramadan strengthens awareness of our shared obligation to reject violence, to pursue peace, and to give to those in need who are suffering from poverty or conflict. Trump concluded by saying, "I extend my best wishes to Muslims everywhere for a blessed month as you observe the Ramadan traditions of charity, fasting, and prayer. May God bless you and your families." (ANI)