Gaza City – Despite the ongoing devastation from years of conflict, Palestinians in Gaza are marking the holy month of Ramadan, clinging to traditions even as basic necessities grow increasingly scarce. Reports from the region detail a somber observance, with many breaking their fast amid the rubble of their homes and, tragically, some holding iftar meals in graveyards to mourn loved ones. The start of Ramadan, confirmed for February 26, 2026, comes under a fragile ceasefire, but the festive spirit is significantly diminished by economic hardship and widespread destruction.
The situation in Gaza is particularly acute this year, with the cost of food skyrocketing due to the ongoing restrictions on supplies, even with the ceasefire reached in October. An analysis by Al Jazeera reveals a dramatic increase in prices for essential commodities, making a complete iftar meal – the traditional fast-breaking meal – unattainable for the vast majority of the population. This Ramadan arrives after two years of intense war, leaving a deep scar on the community and exacerbating existing economic vulnerabilities.
Economic Strain Deepens During Ramadan
According to data from the Ministry of Economy in Gaza, prices have risen sharply since the start of the conflict in October 2023. Chicken prices have increased by 80 percent, rising from 14 shekels (approximately $4.49) per kilogram to 25 shekels (approximately $8.01). Frozen fish has seen an even more substantial increase of 190 percent, jumping from 8 shekels ($2.56) to 23 shekels ($7.37) per kilogram. Frozen red meat has risen 75 percent, from 23 shekels ($7.37) to 40 shekels ($12.82) per kilogram. These increases represent a significant burden for families already struggling to afford basic necessities.
The price spikes were even more severe during periods of tightened Israeli siege or complete closure of crossings into Gaza, with food prices increasing by over 700 percent at times. Although prices have slightly decreased since the ceasefire began, they remain significantly higher than pre-war levels, creating a challenging environment for observing Ramadan traditions. The economic catastrophe is impacting the ability of families to maintain even the most basic aspects of the holy month.
Traditions Continue Amidst Destruction
Despite the hardships, Palestinians are striving to maintain their religious observances. Images from Gaza City show calligrapher and artist Hani Dahman carefully writing “Welcome, Ramadan” on a concrete slab amidst rubble and destroyed buildings, with children gathering to watch. The Associated Press reported that Muslim worshippers performed evening Tarawih prayers on the first night of Ramadan at mosques damaged during the Israel-Hamas war, including the Alkanz Mosque and the Great Omari Mosque. These scenes demonstrate a remarkable resilience and determination to uphold religious traditions in the face of adversity.
The observance of Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time for Muslims, marked by increased worship, religious reflection, and charity. However, this year, the ability to fully participate in these traditions is severely limited for many in Gaza. The combination of economic hardship and physical destruction creates a uniquely challenging environment for observing the holy month.
A Fragile Ceasefire and Ongoing Concerns
Ramadan began under a shaky ceasefire, raising hopes for a period of respite. However, the underlying tensions remain, and the long-term impact of the conflict continues to be felt throughout the region. The situation remains precarious, and the future remains uncertain for the people of Gaza.
Recent reports also highlight the dire living conditions, with some families forced to break their fast in graveyards as they mourn loved ones lost in the conflict. Al Jazeera reported that Palestinians in Gaza are enduring flooded tents during Ramadan, adding to the already challenging circumstances.
As Ramadan progresses, the focus will remain on the delivery of humanitarian aid and the sustainability of the ceasefire. The international community continues to call for a lasting resolution to the conflict and for improved living conditions for the people of Gaza. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the future of the region and the well-being of its inhabitants.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reflections on this challenging situation in the comments below.
