Feast, faith, and foreign policy: Trump hosts iftar dinner, pledges support to Muslim-Americans - see pics

President Donald Trump hosted the White House’s annual Iftar dinner, marking Ramadan. He welcomed Muslim community leaders, diplomats, and officials, acknowledging their presence and participation in the event. (Photo credit: AP)

Trump thanked the "hundreds of thousands" of Muslim-Americans who supported him in the 2024 presidential election, noting that his campaign initially struggled but gained momentum with the community’s backing.

He reassured attendees that his administration was keeping promises made to the Muslim community, vowing continued support and engagement while he remains in office. (Photo credit: AP)

Trump added humour to his speech, joking about the dinner, saying, "If you don’t like it, don’t complain. You’re still in the White House," drawing laughter from guests. (Photo credit: PTI)

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset. It is a time for worship, reflection, charity, and self-discipline. The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration marking the end of fasting and a time for communal gatherings and gratitude. (Photo credit: AP)

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside faith, prayer, almsgiving, and pilgrimage. It is seen as an act of worship to strengthen one’s connection with God, cultivate self-restraint, and develop empathy for the less fortunate. Muslims refrain from food, drink, and negative behaviours from dawn to sunset. (Photo credit: AP)

The start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, meaning its exact date can vary across Muslim communities. This year, it is expected to begin on or around March 1. Different Islamic authorities may use distinct methods, such as astronomical calculations or physical moon sighting, to determine the start. (Photo credit: AP)