Donald Trump breaks centuries-old Ramadan tradition by not hosting Iftar meal at White House

Donald Trump has broken a Presidential tradition lasting two centuries by not hosting an event to mark Islam’s holy month of Ramadan.

Former Presidents acknowledged the sacred month by holding an Iftar at the White House – the meal eaten after sunset when Muslims break their fast.

But Eid – the end of Ramadan – came and went this year without any mention of a White House meal.

According to Reuters, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson announced in May that there were no plans to mark the event.

Instead he posted a statement at the start of Ramadan saying: “Ramadan is a month of reverence, generosity, and self-reflection.

"Most importantly, it is a cherished time for family and friends to gather and give charity to those who are less fortunate. This time reminds us all of the common values of harmony and empathy we hold dear.”

The White House released a statement which said: “Muslims in the United States joined those around the world during the holy month of Ramadan to focus on acts of faith and charity.

"Now, as they commemorate Eid with family and friends, they carry on the tradition of helping neighbours and breaking bread with people from all walks of life.

"During this holiday, we are reminded of the importance of mercy, compassion, and goodwill. With Muslims around the world, the United States renews our commitment to honour these values. Eid Mubarak."

The tradition harks back to the 1800s when Thomas Jefferson is reported to have hosted a meal after sunset to accommodate for Muslim guests who were fasting.

It was made a more permanent fixture in the White House calendar by Hillary Clinton when she was First Lady and was honoured by the Bush and Obama administrations as well.

President George Bush hosted the Iftar meal after the 9/11 attacks, during which he said that the country was fighting terrorism, not Islam.