Mace Challenges Omar’s Remarks on U.S. Actions During Ramadan

On Saturday, Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) pushed back against Representative Ilhan Omar’s (D-Minn.) statement that the U.S. appears to favor attacking Islamic nations during Ramadan, a sacred month in the Islamic calendar.

Omar had expressed her disgust on social media, referencing the U.S. attack on Iraq, saying, “It makes me sick to know that the US is planning to attack Iran again during Ramadan,” just before a scheduled U.S.-Israeli airstrike on Tehran.

She alleged that the U.S. seems to target Islamic countries during this significant time, suggesting that these nations are not breaking international law but are simply subjected to bias against their faith.

Mace, who is campaigning for governor of South Carolina, alleged that Omar shows more sympathy for “terrorists” than for Americans or Israelis. “I wouldn’t do that during Ramadan. Why do you continue to align with those who wish harm upon Americans and their allies?” Mace retorted, highlighting her fierce criticism.

This year’s Ramadan, which represents the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad, spans from February 17 to March 19. It’s a time dedicated to fasting, prayer, and reflection.

In a separate post, Mace contended that Omar seems indifferent to the tragedy of over 1,000 Jews killed during a recent holiday. “If you’re so close to a terrorist, perhaps you should keep it quiet,” she added, expressing her outrage.

Omar had condemned the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, but concurrently called for a ceasefire and peace negotiations from Israel.

It was noted that the U.S. and Israel had initiated airstrikes against Iran as part of Operation Epic Fury that same day.

Furthermore, the Minnesota Democratic Party faced scrutiny for a claim they made regarding U.S. military actions, which stated that the invasion of Iraq began before Ramadan. This was clarified by saying major combat operations ended before the holy month began.

Interestingly, surveys indicate that only about 37% of Iran’s population identifies as Muslim, with nearly half identifying as non-religious, complicating the narrative around religious affiliations and military actions.

In reaction to Mace’s comments, Omar shared a post featuring an article by progressive columnist Wajahat Ali, suggesting that Mace was “casually bombing fasting families in Iran during Ramadan.” The exchange illustrates a growing tension around U.S. military actions and their implications during significant religious observances.