ISLAMABAD: As the Ramazan moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and several other countries on Tuesday night, leaders and lawmakers across the globe shared messages marking the start of the holy month.
In Pakistan, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) indicated that the first day of Ramazan is “likely to fall” on February 19 (Thursday). It added that the official confirmation will come from the Ruet-i-Hilal Committee.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney took to his official X account to wish Muslims in Canada and worldwide “a blessed and peaceful month of reflection and prayer”.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also extended greetings, saying, “I extend my best wishes to Muslim communities across Ontario who are observing this sacred month of prayer, reflection and togetherness.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared a message on X, wishing Muslims in the country well for Ramazan.
“The sacred weeks of Ramadan are a chance for Muslims to reaffirm their faith, to reflect, to forgive and to practice acts of love and kindness,” he said. “It is also an expression of the compassion, gratitude and togetherness that have been the hallmarks of the story of Muslims in Australia.”
He emphasised that Australia’s “strength, success and unity” rests on the fundamental right of every citizen “to practice their faith in peace and safety, proud of who they are”.
Acknowledging the pain felt by many Australian Muslims due to the Middle East conflict, he said there was “much to be done”.
“Over the month ahead, may your faith sustain and comfort you,” he added.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer conveyed his wishes for “Muslim communities in the UK and across the world a peaceful and blessed holy month”.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan said, “As Londoners come together to celebrate the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, our capital shines bright as a beacon of hope and diversity. From my family to yours: Ramadan Mubarak.”
While US President Donald Trump had not issued a statement at the time, other American political leaders marked the occasion.
The Democratic Party posted a message on X wishing a “reflective and peaceful Ramadan to all who observe”.
Similarly, the official House Democrats account extended “peace, reflection and blessings to you and your loved ones throughout this holy month”.
US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi greeted “Muslim families in San Francisco and around the world” with Ramazan Mubarak.
“May this holy month bring peace, wisdom, and blessings through the reflection and spiritual renewal that make Ramadan so meaningful,” she said.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg sent “warm wishes for peace and joy” to Muslims globally.
New York City’s recently appointed mayor, Zohran Mamdani, shared a brief “Ramadan Mubarak” message along with a video featuring a variety of iftar dishes.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin, in her message to the Muslim community, noted that she had brought together Muslim leaders to address Islamophobia and expand access to halal meals.
“As we begin the holy month of Ramadan, we must recognise the heightened safety concerns many Muslim families are feeling,” she said, adding that the NYC council remained committed to ensuring that “Muslim New Yorkers are safe, respected, and celebrated”.
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib sent “love” to Muslims observing the holy month, stating, “May it strengthen our commitment to build a more just world.”
She pointed out that this marks the third Ramazan during the ongoing genocide in Gaza, saying, “We hold in our hearts the Palestinians still facing violence.”
US Representative Jim McGovern offered “a blessed month full of peace, hope, prayer, and reflection to all those celebrating in Massachusetts and around the world”.
Representative Sarah McBride also conveyed a “blessed and peaceful” Ramazan to those observing in Delaware and beyond.
“This holy month is a time of reflection, discipline, and deep compassion for others a reminder of the strength found in community and the power of service,” she said.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer described the month as “a time of reflection, sacrifice, and generosity” and said it serves as a reminder to lead with “compassion and care for our neighbours”.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said, “Let there be no doubt that our state will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and diversity for all” during the holy month.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger extended greetings to residents beginning their observance, saying, “I’m wishing you an easy fast and a peaceful, reflective, and joyful holy month.”
Virginia Senator Tim Kaine also shared his wishes for a “blessed and meaningful month” with Muslim communities locally and worldwide.
“I hope this time brings peace and prosperity to all observing,” he said on X.
California Senator Adam Schiff expressed hope for a period of “reflection and spiritual growth for you and your loved ones”.
Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar said, “May this blessed month bring peace, hope, and renewal.”
Virginia Representative Suhas Subramanyam posted a video message, saying, “I hope it is a peaceful and reflective Holy Month.”
“May your prayers be answered and may your heart find peace and tranquility,” he said in the video.
