By our correspondent
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s administration held a nine-hour prayer rally on the National Mall in Washington, aiming to portray the United States as a nation “under God” as part of celebrations marking the country’s 250th anniversary.
According to Arab media reports, the event brought together religious leaders, singers, social activists and Republican figures. Organisers said the gathering was intended to reinforce faith-based unity in American society.
Senator Tim Scott told the audience that the rights of Americans are granted by God rather than government. In a video message, President Trump read passages from the Bible and spoke about loyalty to God and the consequences of disobedience. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said America’s foundations were built on Christian values.
The event, however, faced strong criticism from observers who said it showed religious bias. Critics pointed out that only one Jewish scholar was present while most speakers were Christian, raising concerns over inclusivity.
Interfaith Alliance president Paul Raushenbush said the event violated the First Amendment of the US Constitution and the principle of separation of church and state. Critics also accused the Trump administration of blurring the line between religion and politics.
A recent survey showed that 17 percent of Americans support making Christianity the official religion of the United States, while 54 percent still favour maintaining a separation between religion and the state.
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