Palestinians Mark Eid al-Fitr Under the Shadow of Israeli Airstrikes
As Muslims around the world gathered to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank observed the holiday under a cloud of grief, fear, and destruction. Instead of joyous family gatherings, the sounds of laughter were replaced with the echo of sirens and the roar of warplanes overhead.
In Gaza, families woke up to the aftermath of another night of Israeli airstrikes, part of an ongoing military campaign that has intensified in recent weeks. The strikes have targeted what Israel says are militant sites, but residential areas have also been hit, leading to mounting civilian casualties and the displacement of thousands.
“Eid is supposed to be a time of happiness and unity,” said Leila Haroun, a mother of three in northern Gaza. “But how can we celebrate when our children are traumatized and our homes are no longer safe?”
Markets that would normally be bustling with last-minute shoppers stood half-empty, with many unable or unwilling to venture outside. Mosques held morning prayers, but attendance was visibly reduced, with many congregants offering prayers for the dead instead of festive greetings.
Meanwhile, humanitarian groups have called for an immediate ceasefire and greater access to deliver aid, warning of a growing crisis as hospitals struggle with limited resources and electricity shortages.
Despite the devastation, many Palestinians tried to find moments of hope and resilience. “Even in war, we hold on to our traditions,” said Ahmed Yousef, who prepared a modest Eid meal for his extended family. “They can take our buildings, but not our spirit.”
As the conflict continues, the people of Gaza once again mark a sacred holiday not in celebration, but in survival.
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