Muslims in Iran and various other nations are jubilantly observing Eid al-Fitr, marking the culmination of the sacred fasting month of Ramadan, following the sighting of the new moon of the lunar month of Shawwal.
Eid al-Fitr
In Iran’s northeastern city of Mashhad, the sound of Naqareh drums reverberated at the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS), the eighth Shia Imam, as devout Muslims who had observed a month-long fast congregated for Eid prayers at dawn. Similar prayers were held across the country in commemoration of this joyous event, signifying the conclusion of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.
In the capital city of Tehran, crowds gathered at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla (Congregational Prayers Site) to participate in the Eid al-Fitr prayers, with the ceremony being led by Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution.
Joining Iran in the festivities are several other nations including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Yemen, Qatar, and more, where Muslims are coming together to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on this auspicious Wednesday.
Eid al-Fitr is a significant religious holiday observed by Muslims worldwide, marking the culmination of 29 or 30 days of fasting from dawn to sunset throughout the holy month of Ramadan. The occasion falls on the first day of the 10th lunar calendar month of Shawwal, varying based on the sighting of the new moon by local religious authorities.
Eid al-Fitr prayers, a distinctive Salat (Islamic prayer), are typically performed in open fields or spacious halls with congregations in attendance.
In the sacred al-Aqsa Mosque compound, more than 60,000 Muslim Palestinian worshipers defied Israeli restrictions to gather for Eid al-Fitr prayers, despite facing challenges and obstacles imposed by Israeli forces. Some worshippers, unable to access the mosque due to Israeli intervention, performed Eid prayers in the streets surrounding the mosque.
In the Gaza Strip, where communities have endured the devastation of war, Palestinians performed Eid al-Fitr prayers amidst the ruins of mosques destroyed by Israeli offensives, in school shelters housing displaced individuals, and in public squares. Despite the adversity, relief organizations distributed sweets and toys to children, aiming to bring joy and happiness amid difficult circumstances. In various locations across Gaza, including the city of Rafah and Jabalia camp, Eid prayers were held despite adverse weather conditions, underscoring the resilience and steadfastness of the Palestinian people in upholding their religious traditions and celebrations.
