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Eid al-Adha in Gaza Marked by Hunger and Hardship After Months of War

As Muslims in Gaza prepare to mark Eid al-Adha, a major religious holiday traditionally celebrated with the sharing of meat, the atmosphere is somber. After eight months of war, celebrations are overshadowed by hunger and hardship.

Eid al-Adha, meaning “sacrifice,” involves the ritual killing of a sheep, goat, or cow to commemorate the prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. This year, nearly everyone in Gaza is in need, with severe restrictions on goods and humanitarian aid exacerbating the crisis.

The ongoing Israeli military offensive has led to widespread deprivation. Since the conflict began on October 7, more than 37,000 people have been killed, and hunger is rampant. The United Nations reports that more than 50,000 children in Gaza require treatment for acute malnutrition.

Despite a recent announcement from the Israeli military allowing a daily pause in operations to let more aid enter Gaza, it remains unclear how much relief this will bring. The UN World Food Program has warned that southern Gaza could soon face catastrophic levels of hunger, similar to the north.