There is no joy after we lost our family and loved ones,” said Fedaa Ayyad, a resident of Gaza City

Palestinians in Gaza Strip are beginning Ramadan with heavy hearts, as the Muslim holy month’s usual celebrations are overshadowed by grief and the struggle to survive during a fragile ceasefire that residents say is repeatedly violated by Israel.

“There is no joy after we lost our family and loved ones,” said Fedaa Ayyad, a resident of Gaza City.

“Even when we try to adapt to the situation, we cannot truly feel it in our hearts … I am among those who cannot sense the Ramadan atmosphere.”

Ramadan began on Wednesday in Gaza, a period traditionally marked by fasting from dawn until sunset, family gatherings, spiritual reflection, and acts of generosity.

This year, however, conditions are bleak. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, Israel’s ongoing military campaign has killed at least 72,061 people and injured 171,715 since October 2023.

The conflict has devastated infrastructure and displaced most of the population, while financial hardship dominated conversations in markets ahead of Ramadan.

“There is no cash among the people. There is no work. It is Ramadan, but Ramadan requires money,” said Gaza City resident Waleed Zaqzouq, urging merchants to consider residents’ economic difficulties.

“Before the war, people lived with dignity,” he added. “The war has completely changed everything, leaving people exhausted and broken.”

Severe winter weather has compounded the suffering, with freezing temperatures reportedly causing child deaths and heavy rains flooding displacement camps and bringing down already damaged buildings.

“Much has changed compared with Ramadan before the war,” said Raed Koheel, also from Gaza City. “In the past, the atmosphere was joyful. Streets were illuminated with decorations, and children were happy.”

Despite the destruction, some Palestinians are trying to preserve Ramadan traditions. In Khan Younis, calligrapher Hani Dahman painted “Welcome, Ramadan” in Arabic amid the rubble as children gathered nearby.

“We are here in Khan Younis camp trying to bring happiness to children, women, men, and families,” Dahman said. “We are sending a message to the world that we are people who seek life.”

Simple Ramadan lights now hang among the debris. Observing the effort, Mohammed Taniri said, “When they create these small but beautiful decorations, it brings joy to children.

Despite all the hardships, they are still trying to create a pleasant atmosphere.”