Amid destruction, loss, Gaza clings to Ramadan traditions with resilience
Al Jazeera
Gaza families struggle to find joy during Ramadan amid war’s devastation, financial hardship, and displacement.
Palestinians in Gaza are entering Ramadan with heavy hearts, as the Muslim holy month’s traditional festivities give way to grief and survival concerns during a fragile “ceasefire” that Israel violates on a daily basis.
“There is no joy after we lost our family and loved ones,” said Gaza City resident Fedaa Ayyad. “Even if we try to cope with the situation, we can’t truly feel it in our hearts … I am one of those who cannot feel the atmosphere of Ramadan.”
Ramadan began on Wednesday in Gaza, typically a period when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset while embracing family gatherings, spiritual devotion, contemplation, and generosity.
The reality in Gaza, however, is grim. Israel’s genocidal war has killed at least 72,061 people and wounded 171,715 since October 2023, according to the Ministry of Health. It has also shattered infrastructure and displaced the majority of the population. Financial hardship dominated conversations in markets this week.
“There is no cash among the people. There is no work. It is indeed Ramadan, but Ramadan requires money,” said Gaza City resident Waleed Zaqzouq, calling on merchants to recognise people’s economic struggles.
Despite displacement, Gaza families strive to create joy this Ramadan, navigating grief, scarcity, and fragile peace.
Ramped-up raids, violent settler attacks and bulldozed homes – Israel escalates its assault on the occupied West Bank.
Announcement follows multiple impeachment complaints against the vice president over allegations of corruption.
Prominent Trump supporter Amer Ghalib says US decision to nix deportation protection for Yemenis ‘very unfortunate’.
UN warns that Israel’s plan will lead to widespread dispossession of Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank.
China has previously criticised the role, accusing the US of interfering in China’s internal affairs.
Indirect talks in Geneva show progress, but gaps remain over Iran’s uranium enrichment and missile programme.
Tilda Swinton and Javier Bardem among actors and directors expressing dismay at Berlinale’s ‘anti-Palestinian racism’ and silence on Israel’s genocidal war.
A Russian official says Western powers that seize sanctioned vessels carrying Moscow’s oil are committing ‘piracy-like attacks’.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the $77m released on Tuesday falls short of the amount owed for the transportation project.
The suspect, identified as Carter Camacho from Smyrna, Georgia, was wearing a tactical vest and gloves and had additional ammunition alongside a shotgun.
Experts say newly recently released documents show the need for an independent investigation into Epstein’s sex-trafficking ring.
US late-night show host says CBS pulled interview from Monday’s broadcast over fears it could violate new regulatory guidance.