In Islamic culture, Eid al-Adha carries deep meanings of compassion and solidarity. This celebration, which begins this year on June 6 and lasts four days, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to a divine vision, before God intervened and provided a ram instead. When we distribute the meat of the sacrificed animals, a share must go to the poor and the needy. We also share with neighbors and friends. Relatives visit one another, give Eidiyah (a small amount of money gifted to children), and exchange greetings: “Eid Mubarak” (“Blessed Eid”), may you live to see many more.

Just two years ago, Gaza’s streets during Eid al-Adha were vibrant until midnight. The markets overflowed with people, the sound of car horns filled the roads, and the scent

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