Gaza Marks Eid al-Fitr Amidst Ongoing Conflict and Restrictions

Gaza residents observed Eid al-Fitr on March 20, 2026, amidst the rubble of buildings destroyed by Israeli attacks, continuing to practice their faith despite the ongoing conflict. Celebrations were marked by a somber atmosphere and significant restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities.

Eid Prayers and Continued Conflict

Palestinian families gathered in open spaces and outside damaged mosques to perform Eid prayers, maintaining traditions despite the ongoing violence. Senior Palestinian Hamas official, Ismail Radwan, led Eid prayers in Gaza’s Al-Saraya Square, with members of Hamas’s military wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigade and the Islamic Jihad’s Quds Brigade providing security.

Recent Israeli airstrikes have exacerbated the already dire situation in Gaza. According to reports from Al-Jazeera, four people were killed in strikes on March 19th. The Israeli military stated it eliminated four Gazans it identified as threats BBC News.

Despite a ceasefire being in effect since October 10th, bloodshed continues to impact the war-torn territory. More than 20,000 sick and wounded Palestinians are on waiting lists for medical treatment unavailable in Gaza, with critical shortages of essential medicines and supplies Yahoo News.

Restrictions and Humanitarian Crisis

Israeli authorities banned Eid prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem, citing security restrictions related to the war against Iran Yahoo News. Palestinians responded by calling for worshipers to gather near the Ancient City to pray as close as possible to Al-Aqsa.

Occupied East Jerusalem experienced a subdued festive season. The Old City, typically bustling before Eid al-Fitr, was eerily quiet. Israel restricted access and prohibited most shops from opening, allowing only pharmacies and basic food stores to operate. Palestinian traders reported severe economic hardship due to these restrictions, fearing Israeli reprisals for speaking out.

Since the end of 2023, Israeli attacks have reportedly destroyed more than 1,100 of the approximately 1,240 mosques in Gaza Yahoo News.

Recent Developments in the Region

Recent reports indicate that the Israeli military dropped charges against soldiers accused of abusing a Palestinian detainee, citing “exceptional circumstances” BBC News. Indonesia is preparing to deploy up to 8,000 soldiers to Gaza as part of the second phase of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement BBC News. Hamas recently held a vote to choose a new interim leader following the deaths of top leaders in Israeli strikes BBC News.

The situation in Gaza remains critical, with ongoing conflict, severe humanitarian challenges, and restrictions on religious practices.