State of the World from NPR The Sounds of Ramadan in Gaza
Mar 28, 2025
As Ramadan draws to a close, a vivid portrayal of life in Gaza emerges amid the chaos. Listeners experience the contrasting sounds of celebration and despair, reflecting on the impacts of ongoing conflict. Personal stories reveal the struggle for survival and the challenges of food shortages, turning festive traditions into poignant moments of resilience. This segment captures the profound hope residents cling to, even as airstrikes disrupt their lives.
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Sounds of Ramadan
- In Gaza, during Ramadan, young men wake people up for pre-dawn meals by drumming and chanting.
- This year, the holy month was disrupted by resumed conflict with Israel, shattering hopes for peace.
Uncertainty and Shortages
- Issam Zakat expresses uncertainty about whether to flee or stay, highlighting the psychological impact of the conflict.
- Food shortages are widespread due to Israel's blockade on Gaza, restricting humanitarian aid.
Rationing and Resilience
- Fuad Nassar now waits two hours for beans, a stark contrast to his previous Ramadan feasts.
- Rana al-Abbari cooks pizza using canned food in a makeshift oven made from a microwave, amidst the debris of her destroyed apartment.