Despite a fragile ceasefire, the first Friday of Ramadan witnessed starkly different scenes of worship in Jerusalem and Gaza, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian and security divide following the October agreement between Israel and Hamas.
In Jerusalem, tens of thousands of Muslims gathered for prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound under heightened security. The attendance, while significant, was notably constrained by Israeli restrictions. Authorities limited entry permits for West Bank Palestinians to 10,000 for the entire Ramadan period, a fraction of the numbers traditionally allowed for the holy month. Over 3,000 police officers were deployed across the city to manage the crowds and maintain order, reflecting persistent security concerns.
Conversely, in Gaza, prayers took place amidst widespread devastation. Worshippers gathered in damaged mosques and in open spaces next to rubble, with lanterns illuminating broken streets. Families residing in tents shared simple iftar meals to break their fast. The article notes that prices remain high and humanitarian aid is still limited, conditions exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and blockade. Yet, despite the profound loss and shortages, many residents described Ramadan as providing moments of calm, community, and spiritual solidarity.
These divergent scenes unfold against the backdrop of a ceasefire that took effect in October, pausing major hostilities but leaving deep political and humanitarian grievances unresolved. The limited West Bank access underscores Israel’s security calculus, while the situation in Gaza illustrates the prolonged toll on civilian infrastructure and daily life.
The observances underscore how religious practice continues under immense duress, serving both as a ritual and a form of resilience. The sustainability of the ceasefire and the pace of aid delivery will be critical factors influencing the remainder of Ramadan in the region. The international community continues to monitor whether the temporary calm can translate into a more durable resolution to the underlying conflicts.
