GAZA: The Eid Al-Adha holiday in the Gaza Strip this year is a somber occasion marked by despair and tragedy as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues unabated. Normally a time of celebration and feasting, the festivities have been overshadowed by the devastation wrought by the ongoing war.
For Gazans like Malakiya Salman, displaced from their homes and living in tents, there is little joy to be found. The usual customs of sacrificing sheep, giving new clothes to children, and sharing meals with the needy have been disrupted by the relentless violence and displacement.
The recent announcement of a “tactical pause of military activity” by the Israeli military provided a brief respite, allowing for the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, the pause did little to alleviate the suffering of Gazans who have endured months of bombardment and siege.
Despite the temporary calm, the scars of war are visible everywhere. Historic mosques lay in ruins, streets are lined with rubble, and makeshift roadside shops operate amidst the wreckage. The high cost of goods and the scarcity of resources further compound the hardship faced by the people of Gaza.
In the face of such adversity, some Gazans like Majdi Abdul Raouf still cling to the traditions of Eid, determined to find moments of joy amidst the chaos. Sacrificing a sheep, despite the exorbitant prices, becomes a symbol of resilience and defiance against the despair.
Yet, for many, the losses incurred during the conflict are irreparable. Families mourn their loved ones lost to the violence, visiting makeshift burial sites where wooden planks mark the graves of the departed. The constant buzzing of Israeli drones serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
As Gazans grapple with the trauma of war, the spirit of Eid is overshadowed by grief and uncertainty. The celebration of sacrifice takes on a new meaning in the context of loss and suffering, reminding the world of the resilience and strength of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity.
