GAZA CITY: Little Ramazan lanterns and string lights brought glimpses of joy to streets lined with rubble, marking the first holy month since the October ceasefire. Worshippers gathered at mosques like Omari Mosque, enduring winter cold but determined to pray despite ongoing hardships.
Displaced residents living in tents across southern Gaza expressed mixed feelings. While grateful for relative calm, shortages of food and essentials have stifled celebrations, leaving many unable to host traditional Iftar or suhoor gatherings. “The joy is stifled,” said Nivin Ahmed, a resident of Al-Mawasi, highlighting ongoing economic and humanitarian challenges.
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Despite adversity, residents sought to maintain the spirit of Ramazan. Maha Fathi, displaced from Gaza City, said neighbors shared moments of hope and decorated streets and markets, fostering a sense of community. Local artist Yazeed Abu Jarad created sand sculptures greeting “Welcome, Ramazan,” drawing children from nearby tent camps.
Security sources reported isolated artillery shelling in parts of Gaza City and central refugee camps, underscoring lingering instability even after the ceasefire. Aid groups note that Israeli control over territory entries limits supply flow, keeping prices high and sustaining reliance on humanitarian aid.
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For Gaza’s 2.2 million residents, nearly all displaced at least once during the conflict, the first Ramazan since the ceasefire is a mix of cautious celebration and remembrance. Families strive to preserve tradition, share small joys, and hope for a future of stability beyond tents and ruins.