Washington, D.C. — In a campaign rally ahead of Election Day, U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump praised his Muslim supporters, highlighting what he described as a “beautiful movement” of Muslims rallying behind him, particularly in the crucial swing state of Michigan. Trump, who has been elected for a second term following a closely contested election, noted that support from Muslim voters has grown significantly, which he believes contributed to his positive performance in Michigan and potentially other key states.
Addressing the rally, Trump spoke warmly of his Muslim supporters, describing them as peace-oriented and intelligent individuals who seek stability and avoid conflict. “They want peace. They really do. They don't want to be in wars. They're very smart," Trump stated, lauding their character and desire for peaceful coexistence. He attributed the origins of the “Muslims for Trump” movement to a small initiative that quickly gained momentum and blossomed into a voting bloc for him in Michigan.
Trump went on to express his appreciation for the group, describing it as an honor to have their support. He acknowledged their contribution to what he characterized as strong election numbers in Michigan, Georgia, and Pennsylvania — all critical battlegrounds in this election cycle. “And I think they might very well be responsible for the kind of numbers we're showing up in Michigan,” Trump said, adding that similar trends were apparent in other swing states.
In his speech, Trump sought to counter stereotypes and misconceptions about the Muslim community. He emphasized that his Muslim supporters do not condone or engage in extremist activities, but rather are individuals focused on peace and community stability. “They’re not involved in the terror and all the things that are going on. They're great people," he remarked, signaling a shift from his previously contentious rhetoric about Muslims.
Concluding his remarks, Trump expressed hope that this alliance would foster “tremendous cohesion” among Americans of diverse backgrounds, stressing his optimism about the role this support could play in bridging divides. He encouraged members of the "Muslims for Trump" group to stand up at the rally, thanking them for their role in his campaign’s success.
The rally was one of Trump’s last public appearances before Election Day and was seen as part of his strategy to consolidate support from a range of demographic groups, especially in pivotal states. His victory in Michigan, in particular, was seen as a result of his ability to appeal to various communities, including Muslims who may have previously felt alienated by his earlier stances.
Trump's second term as president now awaits inauguration, with his team indicating that his administration will focus on uniting Americans across different backgrounds and faiths, hoping to build on the support seen from groups like "Muslims for Trump."
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London, Nov 22: A bomb disposal squad deployed as a “precaution” to the South Terminal of Gatwick Airport concluded an investigation into a "security incident" on Friday after making a “suspect package” safe.
The South Terminal of Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport after Heathrow, which was briefly shut owing to the incident reopened following the incident.
The Gatwick is around 45 km south of London.
Two people detained during the enquiries have since been allowed to continue their journey as the airport was opened.
“Police have concluded their investigation into a report of a suspect package at Gatwick Airport. Officers from the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team made the package safe, and the airport has been handed back to its operator,” Sussex Police said in an updated statement.
“Two people detained while enquiries were ongoing have subsequently been allowed to continue their journeys. There will remain an increased police presence in the area to assist with passengers accessing the South Terminal for onward travel,” the statement added.
Earlier on Friday, the incident caused severe disruption at the busy airport’s South Terminal, while the North Terminal of Gatwick Airport remained unaffected.
“Police were called to the South Terminal at Gatwick Airport at 8.20 am on Friday (November 22) following the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage,” a Sussex Police statement said.
“To ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users, a security cordon has been put in place whilst the matter is dealt with. As a precaution, an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team is being deployed to the airport. This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We’d advise the public to avoid the area where possible,” it said.
Footage on social media taken outside the airport showed crowds of frustrated travellers being moved away from the terminal building.
Gatwick said it was working hard to resolve the issue.
“A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident," the airport said in a social media post.
“Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”
Train and bus services that serve the airport were also impacted while the police carried out their inquiries.
In an unrelated incident in south London on Friday morning, the US Embassy area in Nine Elms by the River Thames was the scene of a controlled explosion by Scotland Yard dealing with what they believe may have been a “hoax device”.
“We can confirm the 'loud bang' reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers,” the Metropolitan Police said in a post on X.
“Initial indications are that the item was a hoax device. An investigation will now follow. Some cordons will remain in place for the time being but the majority of the police response will now be stood down,” it added.