Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank are facing a somber start to Ramadan this year, as the usual festive decorations and celebratory mood are overshadowed by ongoing attacks in Gaza and rising violence in the region.
Hana Karameh, a mother of five from Hebron, expressed the lack of joy and the feeling of helplessness and despair that many Palestinians are experiencing during this holy month. The usual traditions of praying together with neighbors, gathering for suhoor, and shooting off fireworks have been replaced by a sense of unease and uncertainty.
The economic situation in the West Bank has also worsened, with businesses struggling due to Israeli restrictions and closures since October. This has led to a decrease in the ability to host lavish iftar meals, further adding to the challenges faced by Palestinians during Ramadan.
The detainment of family members, like Hana Karameh’s husband and daughter, by Israeli forces has also added to the hardship faced by many families in the West Bank. More than 7,500 Palestinians have been detained since the recent attacks led by Hamas, according to the Palestinian Authority.
The escalating violence and regular Israeli raids in the West Bank have resulted in the deaths of over 425 people since October, further contributing to the sense of fear and uncertainty among Palestinians. The emotional toll of daily incursions, gunfire, and detentions has left many residents on edge during this holy month.
Despite the challenges, Palestinians like journalist Bassam Abu al-Rub from Jenin are trying to maintain a sense of hope and resilience. The restrictions on visiting Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, one of the holiest sites in Islam, have added to the disappointment felt by many Palestinians during Ramadan.
As Palestinians in the West Bank navigate the difficulties of celebrating Ramadan in the midst of conflict and hardship, the hope for peace and stability remains a distant but essential goal for many in the region.
