US Prez Donald Trump lights diya in White House, extends Diwali wishes

As the world is expecting United States president Donald Trump's "big announcement" in a few hours, he has extended his wishes to Indians on Diwali. Taking to Twitter, he said that First Lady of the United States Melania Trump and he are wishing those celebrating the festival of lights." Trump also posted a video of him lighting Diyas at the White House along with group of Indian Americans. 

In the video, Trump said: "As we light the Diya today, we know our relation strengthened by the sacred tradition. May this light bring hope to all and may everyone have a wonderful Diwali." Earlier, in a statement released by the White House, Trump had said: "We pray that this year's observance brings love, joy, and eternal peace."

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White House statement on Diwali

Trump also celebrated Diwali on October 24 in the Oval Office with a small group of Indian-Americans. This Diwali marks his third Diwali celebrations at the White House, a tradition started by his predecessor Barack Obama. The White House Statement stated: “As Diwali commences, Melania and I wish those observing the Festival of Lights a blessed and happy celebration. For many Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists in the United States and around the globe, this sacred period is an opportunity to commemorate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Throughout this holy time, members of these faiths engage in prayer, light diyas, and lanterns, and partake in traditional feasts and other festivities with friends and family." 

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Trump's big announcement

In the early hours of Sunday, United States President Donald Trump took to Twitter to announce that he will break big news later in the day. While speculation remains high, some US media reports and international reports say that it may be the news of the killing of ISIS chief Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi. Reports suggest that the US army held an operation along with Syrian Kurd forces to eliminate the ISIS chief. 

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