Feb 22 • 10:51 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Occupation deprives prisoners in Ofer prison of fasting and breaking the fast at the correct time

Palestinian prisoners in Ofer prison are being denied the proper time to fast and break their fast during Ramadan by Israeli prison authorities, according to a statement from the Palestinian Prisoners' Society.

The Israeli administration in Ofer prison is preventing Palestinian prisoners from fasting and breaking their fast at the correct times during Ramadan by failing to inform them of the times for the dawn and sunset prayers. This situation has been reported by the Palestinian Authority’s Prisoners and Released Prisoners Affairs Committee, which highlighted similar practices occurring in other Israeli prisons. An attorney representing these prisoners stated that many were unaware of the beginning of Ramadan, creating confusion and distress amongst them as they miss out on significant religious observances.

The lack of communication regarding official prayer times leads to prisoners entering Ramadan without proper pre-dawn meals (suhoor) and often breaking their fast late, extending their period of fasting beyond the intended times. Such actions from the Israeli authorities are viewed as deliberate attempts to diminish the joy and celebration that accompany religious holidays for Palestinian prisoners. Families of these prisoners suffer as they witness their loved ones enduring hardships and a lack of necessary information during such important religious times.

One notable incident highlights the severity of the situation when a prisoner was caught off guard during a court hearing. Upon being congratulated for the arrival of Ramadan, he displayed total surprise, demonstrating the lack of communication from prison authorities. The attorney's comments on social media emphasized that this kind of treatment not only affects the prisoners' spiritual wellbeing but also exacerbates the emotional distress of their families, leading to a cycle of sorrow and suffering during a time that should be festive and meaningful for these individuals.

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