Ramadan in Gaza marked by grief amid fragile ceasefire and ruins
Ramadan in Gaza is being observed with significant grief as families face displacement and the aftermath of recent violence despite a fragile ceasefire.
As Ramadan progresses in Gaza, many families are enduring the holy month in a state of distress, either displaced from their homes or searching for relatives who may still be trapped under rubble. Recent violence, highlighted by Israeli drone strikes that resulted in numerous casualties, continues to dampen the spirit of the holidays. Families mourn at Al-Shifa Hospital, reflecting the somber reality faced by countless Palestinian families during this period that is typically marked by community and reflection.
According to local officials, the strikes on February 26 claimed the lives of several individuals, including police personnel and civilians. These tragic events have become routine in the region, despite the presence of a fragile ceasefire established in late 2025. Hospitals remain overwhelmed with casualties, which underscores the ongoing instability and suffering experienced by those in Gaza. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen as many people grapple with the emotional and physical aftermath of the conflict.
UN human rights chief Volker Türk expressed grave concerns regarding the impact of ongoing military operations and the resulting displacement on Palestinian communities, suggesting that these actions could lead to permanent changes within the community. While Israel maintains that its military actions are aimed at militant groups, the broader implications for the civilian population are severe, casting a shadow over the holy month of Ramadan for many families who face uncertainty and loss during what should be a time of peace and reflection.