Ramadan festivities in the Occupied West Bank are more subdued than in recent years- in light of Israel's war on Gaza. Palestinians in the West Bank are struggling with a shortage of goods in the markets to prepare for Iftar during Ramadan.


Jerusalem

Ramadan festivities in the Occupied West Bank are notably more subdued compared to recent years, attributed to the impact of Israel's military actions in Gaza. The conflict appears to have had significant repercussions on daily life and cultural practices in the region, particularly affecting the observance of Ramadan. This period, which is traditionally marked by communal prayers, feasting after sunset, and family gatherings, has been affected by logistical and emotional strains.

Palestinians residing in the West Bank are facing challenges in preparing for Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast. This difficulty stems from a shortage of goods in the markets, a situation that evidently disrupts the usual preparation and celebration routines associated with Ramadan. The disruptions in supply and the consequent scarcity of food and other essential items for Iftar emphasize the broader impact of the Israel-Gaza conflict on the Palestinian territories, highlighting the interconnectedness of geopolitical events and everyday life.



Subdued Ramadan festivities in the West Bank

This might be the busiest we have seen the central vegetable market in Ramallah since the beginning of the war, but it does not compare to the previous Ramadan seasons and the previous years, where it would be hard to find a place to stand, really, in the market, especially at this time of the day, when Palestinians are getting out of work, trying to gather and buy some vegetables to share the breakfast meal with their family. Ramadan or no Ramadan, the Israeli occupation's measures against Palestinians continue with the extensive Israeli raids, as well as the checkpoints that are no doubt preventing Palestinians from reuniting with their families in one table. This is the worst Ramadan for us because of the war on Gaza. How are we supposed to feel when our people cannot find food there? Our hearts are aching for our brothers and sisters in Gaza. The military checkpoints are very difficult. You never know when they'll put up a new one. They are there to complicate our lives. Our economic situation's already been difficult, but now, with the closures and preventing workers from working in Israel, it's become even more complicated. Despite the occupation, the war, the difficulties, many people here were telling us that they were trying to find some sense of normalcy during Ramadan, but all their hearts and minds are fixated on Gaza. They were hoping that by the beginning of this month, they would see a ceasefire. Now, all of these hopes have been diminished, but their prayers continue for a ceasefire, for the war to end, for the situation to get a little bit better.

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