A Bittersweet Ramadan: Breaking Iftar Amidst the Ongoing Onslaught in Palestine

Ramadan is once again upon us, and the global Ummah is embarking on a journey of reflection, devotion, and community. It is a time for fasting from dawn until dusk, for spiritual renewal, and for strengthening bonds with loved ones.  

However, this year, as we gather to break our fasts, it's impossible to ignore the stark reality faced by millions of Palestinians who are unable to fully embrace the blessings of this holy month due to the ongoing violence they endure. 

In Palestine, Ramadan arrives amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions, violence, death and displacement. The joyous anticipation that typically accompanies the beginning of Ramadan has been overshadowed by the harsh realities of misery and conflict.  

As families come together to share the traditional Iftar meal, the echoes of explosions and the wails of sirens serve as a haunting reminder of the ongoing suffering endured by our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land.  

For those living in besieged Gaza, where access to basic necessities was severely restricted even before the outbreak of the current war, the challenges of observing Ramadan are compounded. The lack of adequate food, water, electricity, and shelter amplifies the hardships faced by Palestinians as they strive to uphold their religious obligations during this sacred month. 

There has long been a tendency for Ramadan in the Holy Land to be darkened by violence. Often, the focus is on the West Bank – Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is typically prone to hostility during the holy month. But for those in Gaza, Ramadan of 2024 takes place in a completely changed world, a world unlike anything they’ve known before. 

But we refuse to give up on Gaza. This is one of the most important humanitarian missions we've faced as a community, and our work is only just beginning. Together, we will continue to strive for peace and aid for those in need, never wavering in our dedication to alleviate suffering and restore hope. Through Penny Appeal’s Gaza Emergency appeal, you can make a significant impact in providing essential assistance to the people of Gaza during this important month. Just £50 can provide food and water supplies for Palestinians, and £100 can help provide a range of medical consumables to support the injured or provide 15 Palestinians with 2 life-saving nutritious food packs each. 

Furthermore, this Ramadan Penny Appeal are delivering daily Iftar meals in Gaza throughout the holy month, reminding our Palestinian brothers and sisters that they are not alone in their struggle, and that even amid hardship, the spirit of compassion and solidarity prevails. 

As we sit down to break our fasts in the comfort of our homes, let us take a moment to remember our brothers and sisters in Palestine who are unable to enjoy the same privilege. In the words of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), "The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy are just like one body. When any part of the body suffers, the whole body feels pain" (Bukhari & Muslim). May this Ramadan serve as a reminder of our interconnectedness and our shared humanity, and may it inspire us to work towards a world where the Palestinian people can enjoy the blessings of freedom, dignity, and peace. 

Click here to support Penny Appeal’s Gaza Emergency appeal.