Ramadan in Syria: Celebrating Amidst Destruction and Desperation
Families in northwestern Syria are facing unprecedented challenges as they celebrate Ramadan in bomb-ravaged houses amidst a dire economic crisis, surging rents, and the ongoing 13-year civil war. The holy month of Ramadan is a time for Muslims to fast from dawn to dusk and break their fast with iftar, but for many in Syria, the struggles only seem to grow with each passing year.
Ibrahim Qaq, a 48-year-old resident of Jericho in southern Idlib, shared the difficulties his family is facing this Ramadan. Displaced from Maarat Al-Numan five years ago, Qaq and his family were forced to move into an abandoned house that had been damaged by airstrikes. The fear of the house collapsing due to previous air raids looms over them, with no access to basic necessities like electricity and water.
The daily threat of bombs and missiles adds to the already dire situation for Qaq and his family. Moving back to a camp for internally displaced people is not a viable option, as the tents provide little protection from harsh weather conditions. With no fixed source of income and dwindling resources, the arrival of Ramadan brings added financial burdens that they can ill afford.
Fatima Umm Zakaria, Qaq’s wife, expressed their fears and struggles, saying, “During Ramadan, we love to cook and live in the beautiful atmosphere of Ramadan, but the war has exhausted us.” The economic and humanitarian crises, exacerbated by the ongoing civil war, have forced young people like Qaq’s children to abandon their dreams. Twenty-year-old Omar Qaq had to drop out of school to work in the construction industry to support his family.
Omar lamented the loss of his education and the inability to pursue his dreams, wishing for a return to normalcy where they could celebrate Ramadan in their hometown without fear or deprivation. However, the reality on the ground paints a stark picture of despair and uncertainty for millions of Syrians.
The United Nations World Food Program’s suspension of aid earlier this year due to lack of funding has further worsened living conditions for Syrians. With almost 50 percent of the 6 million people in northwestern Syria being displaced, access to food and basic necessities remains a pressing issue.
As families in Syria navigate through another challenging Ramadan, the world watches on as the humanitarian crisis deepens. The resilience and strength displayed by individuals like Ibrahim Qaq and his family serve as a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to endure even in the face of unimaginable hardships.
In conclusion, the plight of families in northwestern Syria during Ramadan sheds light on the urgent need for international support and humanitarian aid. As they continue to celebrate amidst destruction and desperation, their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis that demands global attention and action.