Gazans celebrated Eid al-Adha under extremely difficult humanitarian conditions following three years of a genocide which has continued in full view of the world.
Many families live in tents after losing their homes, while shortages of food and basic needs continue across the Strip.
On the morning of Eid, takbir prayers echoed between tents and destroyed buildings as hundreds of people performed Eid prayers in open areas because many mosques were destroyed or are unsafe to enter.
Children wearing simple clothes walked through displacement camps, while some families tried to prepare small amounts of sweets to bring joy to their children.
One Gaza resident said people are trying to keep Eid traditions alive despite the war, explaining that Eid is not only about food and clothes, but also about family ties, faith, and religious practices.
A displaced woman described Eid in Gaza as “sad,” saying families are still living inside tents while airstrikes and killings continue even during the holiday. She added that people in Gaza have also been unable to perform Hajj for the third consecutive year.
Meanwhile, Eid sacrifices have almost completely disappeared because of the siege, high prices, and severe shortages. One resident said many families can barely afford food on a daily basis.
Children also say they no longer feel the joy of Eid because there are no gifts, no celebrations, and constant fears of bombing.
Despite the war and ongoing losses, many people in Gaza continue to hold on to their faith as their main source of strength. Residents believe that patience and faith in God help them survive these difficult conditions, and that their suffering and endurance will not be forgotten by God. – AA
