Across the Middle East, Muslims are observing Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, with celebrations dampened by ongoing wars, economic crises, and displacement. In Gaza, the holiday arrives under the shadow of a devastating conflict, with many families marking the occasion amidst destruction and widespread hunger.
Information available with The Chenab Times indicates that while the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia has seen a slight increase in participants this year, the broader region faces significant challenges. In Gaza, for the third consecutive year, the traditional sacrifices associated with Eid al-Adha are largely impossible due to the destruction of the livestock sector and ongoing restrictions on imports. This has led to a severe shortage of animals for sacrifice, a central ritual of the holiday, leaving many families unable to observe this key tradition.
The Gaza Strip has been experiencing profound hardship for over two years, with widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, and agricultural sectors. Reports suggest that the number of sheep and goats in the enclave has drastically fallen, with calves and cattle almost entirely disappeared. Compounding these issues are severe food shortages and restrictions on humanitarian aid and commercial goods, leading to acute food insecurity for a vast majority of the population. Many families in Gaza are marking Eid al-Adha in tents and crowded shelters, with a lack of festive clothing and meat for their meals.
Lebanon is also observing Eid al-Adha under the shadow of regional conflict, with ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah impacting the festivities. Displaced populations are finding shelter in temporary settlements and repurposed public schools. Despite the challenges, indications suggest that in some parts of Lebanon, there is an attempt to maintain traditions, with communal prayers and family gatherings taking place, though subdued by the prevailing circumstances.
In Iran, Eid al-Adha is being marked with traditional prayers and the observance of sacrificial rituals, though the nation is also navigating a complex regional geopolitical landscape. The dates for Eid al-Adha in Iran were expected to commence on May 27, 2026, with celebrations continuing for three days. Preparations for the holiday in Iran typically involve formal attire for Eid prayers and the preparation of savory dishes made from sacrificed meat, with a significant portion donated to the poor and needy.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has also led to increased costs for essential goods, making it the “most expensive Eid al-Adha ever” for many, according to Islamic Relief. The disruption to global supply chains has exacerbated hunger and impeded aid delivery in several vulnerable countries. In Sudan, for instance, the cost of food and fuel has dramatically increased, with price hikes affecting everything from bread to the cost of distributing Qurbani (sacrifice) food packages. Community kitchens, vital lifelines for many, are struggling to cope with the rising expenses and demand.
The Hajj pilgrimage itself, which culminates during Eid al-Adha, has seen a slight increase in participants, with over 1.7 million people taking part this year. Pilgrims have been performing rituals in soaring temperatures in Saudi Arabia. However, the wider regional conflict, including ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, casts a significant shadow over the region and the celebrations.
In Jerusalem, Israeli authorities reportedly barred Palestinian worshippers from entering the Old City and praying at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Eid al-Fitr (which preceded Eid al-Adha) for the first time since 1967, citing security concerns related to the ongoing conflict. This action has deeply affected the spiritual significance of the holidays for Palestinians in Jerusalem, as access to Al-Aqsa Mosque is central to their observances.
Despite the pervasive atmosphere of conflict and hardship, communities across the Middle East are striving to uphold the spirit of Eid al-Adha. In Gaza, organizations like World Central Kitchen have been working to provide meals to displaced families, aiming to bring a sense of dignity and normalcy to the holiday. The emphasis remains on faith, sacrifice, and community, even in the most challenging circumstances.
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Global Affairs Desk at The Chenab Times covers international developments, global diplomacy, and foreign policy issues through fact-based reporting, explainers, and analytical pieces. The desk focuses on major geopolitical events, diplomatic engagements, and international trends, with an emphasis on verified information, multiple perspectives, and contextual understanding of global affairs.
