https://arab.news/6ua2a
Ramadan was always my favorite time of year growing up in Jeddah. I cherished the iftar meals prepared with care, the visits to Makkah to see my grandparents and pray at the holy mosques, and the eager anticipation of children awaiting the arrival of Eid. The holy month carried a sense of joy and closeness — families united, laughter echoing late into the night.
This year, I find myself thinking of families across our region — in Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, Sudan, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Yemen, the list growing by the day — and how they are experiencing Ramadan.
No festive gatherings. No easy laughter. Instead: anxious parents glued to news broadcasts. Cars packed with families fleeing renewed hostilities. Sleepless nights in basements, shelters or school buildings, waiting in fear for what may come next.
This year, the holy month unfolds under fire.
