World leaders and senior public officials across North America, Europe, and Australia have conveyed messages of goodwill to Muslims as the holy month of Ramadan begins in different parts of the world this week.

In a statement released by the White House, US President Donald Trump extended “greetings and best wishes to all those celebrating Ramadan,” describing the sacred month as a period of spiritual renewal, reflection and gratitude. He said Ramadan strengthens family and community bonds and offered prayers for unity and global peace.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney wished Muslims a blessed and peaceful month of prayer and reflection, while Ontario Premier Doug Ford shared greetings with Muslim communities across the province.

In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ramadan was a time to reaffirm faith, practice kindness and deepen compassion. He also acknowledged the sorrow felt by many Muslims over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, expressing hope that faith would provide comfort during the holy month.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended wishes for a peaceful and blessed Ramadan to Muslim communities in the United Kingdom and worldwide. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said the city “shines bright as a beacon of hope and diversity” during the month.

According to a report by Global Muslim TV, leaders across Western democracies emphasized themes of unity, interfaith harmony and solidarity with Muslim communities, particularly amid heightened global tensions and humanitarian crises affecting parts of the Muslim world.

In the United States, Democratic lawmakers and party leaders also marked the occasion. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed hopes that Ramadan would bring peace and wisdom. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg sent wishes for joy and harmony, while Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said the month should renew commitments to justice, referencing the ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza.

Other members of Congress, including Ilhan Omar, Jim McGovern, Adam Schiff, Sarah McBride and Tim Kaine, highlighted reflection, compassion, and community service in their messages.

At the state level, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer described Ramadan as a time of generosity and spiritual growth, while Illinois Governor JB Pritzker reaffirmed his state’s commitment to diversity. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger wished Muslims an easy fast and a peaceful month.

In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani shared “Ramadan Mubarak” greetings, and City Council Speaker Julie Menin said the council was working with Muslim leaders to combat Islamophobia and improve access to halal meals.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, charity, and communal gatherings. As the Islamic calendar is based on the sighting of the new moon, the start of the holy month varies by region, leading to its observance beginning on different days in different parts of the world.

BOB Post