Printed On 18 Feb 2026
Palestinians in Gaza are getting into Ramadan with heavy hearts, because the Muslim holy month’s conventional festivities give option to grief and survival issues throughout a fragile “ceasefire” that Israel violates each day.
“There isn’t any pleasure after we misplaced our household and family members,” mentioned Gaza Metropolis resident Fedaa Ayyad. “Even when we attempt to deal with the state of affairs, we are able to’t really really feel it in our hearts … I’m a kind of who can not really feel the ambiance of Ramadan.”
Ramadan started on Wednesday in Gaza, sometimes a interval when Muslims quick from daybreak to sundown whereas embracing household gatherings, non secular devotion, contemplation, and generosity.
The truth in Gaza, nonetheless, is grim. Israel’s genocidal struggle has killed a minimum of 72,061 individuals and wounded 171,715 since October 2023, in keeping with the Ministry of Well being. It has additionally shattered infrastructure and displaced the vast majority of the inhabitants. Monetary hardship dominated conversations in markets this week.
“There isn’t any money among the many individuals. There isn’t any work. It’s certainly Ramadan, however Ramadan requires cash,” mentioned Gaza Metropolis resident Waleed Zaqzouq, calling on retailers to recognise individuals’s financial struggles.
“Earlier than the struggle, individuals lived a dignified life,” he added. “The state of affairs has fully modified within the struggle, that means individuals have been devastated and worn down.”
Harsh winter circumstances have intensified struggling, with excessive chilly killing kids, and torrential rains flooding displacement camps and collapsing broken buildings.
“There’s a lot that has modified from this Ramadan to Ramadan earlier than the struggle,” mirrored Raed Koheel from Gaza Metropolis. “Up to now, the ambiance was extra pleasant. The streets had been lit up with decorations. All streets had decorations. Our kids had been joyful.”
However, amid the overwhelming destruction, some Palestinians endeavour to keep up Ramadan traditions. In Khan Younis, calligrapher Hani Dahman painted “Welcome, Ramadan” in Arabic among the many ruins as kids appeared on.
“We’re right here in Khan Younis camp, attempting to deliver happiness to the hearts of youngsters, ladies, males and full households,” Dahman mentioned. “We’re … sending a message to the world that we’re individuals who search life.”
Ornamental Ramadan lights now grasp among the many particles. Mohammed Taniri, witnessing these efforts, noticed: “Once they present such stunning, easy decorations, it brings pleasure to the youngsters. Regardless of all of the hardships, they’re attempting to create a good looking ambiance.”
