Muhammadiyah Rejects Trump’s ‘Mohammad’ Joke: ‘It Is Hurtful’

Anwar Abbas, chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership, criticised a joke by US President Donald Trump about the popularity of the name ‘Mohammad’, made while mocking Iran’s presidency. Abbas said he could not accept Trump’s remark.

“For Donald Trump, Islam and Mohammad are both objects of ridicule. This is clearly unacceptable to Muslims, because it is deeply hurtful,” Anwar told reporters on Monday (18 October 2026).

Anwar said Trump’s joke was demeaning. “Its purpose is, of course, to win sympathy from the public and his allies, most of whom are Christian, Catholic and Jewish. We know Donald Trump often portrays Islam as a common enemy,” he added.

Anwar suspected Trump made the joke to mobilise supporters and remind Americans of what he described as the dangers and threats posed by Islam. He said Trump’s hatred of Islam was deeply ingrained.

“For Donald Trump, hatred of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad and his followers has become so deeply rooted that it is now very difficult to remove,” Anwar said.

“Perhaps, for Donald Trump, death is the only thing that could stop this reprehensible attitude and behaviour,” he added.

Trump jokes about ‘Mohammad’

Donald Trump had earlier joked about the popularity of the name ‘Mohammad’ while mocking Iran’s presidency. He made the remarks in a speech to supporters at a midterm election campaign event.

“You know, if you’re unsure about someone’s name in the Middle East, just call him ‘Mohammad’,” Trump said, according to Reuters on Saturday (17 October 2026).

“The odds are about 65 per cent that you’re right. ‘Hello, Mohammad.’ I’ve been doing it for years. I’ve never been wrong,” he added.