Ramadan begins in Gaza amidst ongoing desperation and famine
Gaza City (Quds News Network) – As Muslims around the world commenced the holy month of Ramadan on Monday, the atmosphere in the Gaza Strip was marked by somber reflections and challenges amid the ongoing Israeli war of genocide and starvation.
The ceasefire talks, aimed at bringing relief to the war-torn region, have reached a standstill, exacerbating hunger and despair among the population.
Prayers took place outdoors against the backdrop of demolished buildings, reflecting the devastating impact of the five-month-old Israeli aggression. In a poignant scene, some residents attempted to infuse a sense of normalcy by hanging fairy lights and decorations in packed tent camps.
A video from a UN-school-turned-shelter captured children dancing and playing with foam while a man sang into a loudspeaker.
However, the festivities were overshadowed by the harsh reality of the prolonged war, which has claimed the lives of over 30,000 Palestinians and left Gaza in ruins.
Families, traditionally accustomed to breaking their fast with holiday feasts during Ramadan, now face a stark contrast. Even where food is available, it often extends only to canned goods, and soaring prices render many items unaffordable.
Sabah al-Hendi, who was shopping for food in the southern city of Rafah, remarked, “You don’t see anyone with joy in their eyes. Every family is sad. Every family has a martyr.”
Efforts to broker a ceasefire involving the United States, Qatar, and Egypt faltered last week. While Israeli occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to continuing the offensive until achieving “total victory”, the Palestinian resistance factions led by Hamas demanded guarantees that any ceasefire agreement must lead to an end to the ongoing Israeli aggression and the return of internally displaced Palestinians to their homes in northern Gaza.
Israel’s war has forced approximately 80 percent of Gaza’s population, totaling 2.3 million people, from their homes and pushed hundreds of thousands to the brink of famine.
Health officials report at least 25 people, primarily children, have succumbed to malnutrition and dehydration in the northern Gaza region.
Israeli forces, sealing off the north since October, have created significant challenges for aid groups attempting to deliver desperately needed food.
Israel’s announcement to expand its offensive to the southern city of Rafah raises concerns about civilian safety, prompting President Joe Biden to declare it a “red line.” However, the U.S. continues to provide military aid to Israel.
The Health Ministry in Gaza says at least 31,045 Palestinians have lost their lives since the Israeli aggression began, with women and children constituting two-thirds of the casualties.
