US president's Ramadan speech has more to do with terrorism than the holy month

As expected, Donald Trump has released a statement. Unfortunately, it has very little to do with the month and what it represents for Muslims.

Rather than talking about what Ramadan really means, he chooses to focus on terrorism.

However, it's important to note that it actually started well, before things went downhill.

He wrote, "On behalf of the American people, I would like to wish all Muslims a joyful Ramadan.

During this month of fasting from dawn to dusk, many Muslims in America and around the world will find meaning and inspiration in acts of charity and meditation that strengthen our communities. 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."

It takes a turn for the worse when Trump says, "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. Such acts only steel our resolve to defeat the terrorists and their perverted ideology."

Terrorism, rather than Ramadan, is further emphasised here.

"On my recent visit to Saudi Arabia, I had the honor of meeting with the leaders of more than 50 Muslim nations. There, in the land of the two holiest sites in the Muslim world, we gathered to deliver together an emphatic message of partnership for the sake of peace, security, and prosperity for our countries and for the world.

I reiterate my message delivered in Riyadh: America will always stand with our partners against 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."

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The statement ends with this, "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."

This is clearly unlike his predecessor, Barack Obama's Ramadan statement. Let's look at his 2016 statement.

“As another new moon heralds the start of the holy month of Ramadan, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to Muslims across the United States and around the world," was the opening statement.

He goes on to write, "As Muslim Americans celebrate the holy month, I am reminded that we are one American family. I stand firmly with Muslim American communities in rejection of the voices that seek to divide us or limit our religious freedoms or civil rights. I stand committed to safeguarding the civil rights of all Americans no matter their religion or appearance. I stand in celebration of our common humanity and dedication to peace and justice for all."

Obama shows a good grasp of what Ramadan means when he says, "For many, this month is an opportunity to focus on reflection and spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience and resilience, compassion for those less fortunate, and unity across communities. Each lesson is profound on its own, and taken together forms a harmonious whole. It’s also a time of year that brings some of the best dishes to the table across the world as families and neighbors gather for iftar."

The statement ends with this, "As I have done throughout my presidency, I look forward to opening the doors of the White House to Muslim Americans during this special occasion – this year for an Eid celebration marking the end of Ramadan. I can think of no better way to mark my Administration’s last celebration of Ramadan as President than to honor the contributions of Muslims in America and across the world for Eid. Ramadan Kareem."

One president clearly knows what he is talking about.