Palestinians in Gaza Prepare for Eid al-Adha Despite Limited Livestock Options

Gaza City Residents Prepare for Third Eid Under War-Like Conditions

In Gaza City, residents are preparing to celebrate their third consecutive Eid al-Adha under war-like conditions. The holiday marks a significant event in the Islamic calendar, but this year’s celebrations will be marked by a shortage of food and joy.

I’tidal Hamdan, a 68-year-old resident who has spent much of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza in her tent, is among those who have been unable to fulfill their lifelong dreams. Her husband, who was killed in an Israeli strike last year, had hoped to perform the Hajj pilgrimage with her. However, due to Israeli restrictions on exit points, there are no pilgrims departing for Hajj this year.

Many displaced families are unable to return to their homes, and some have decorated them with Eid ornaments despite the restrictions. The Israeli siege and war on Gaza have also led to a shortage of cattle or sheep, making it difficult for many families to participate in the traditional custom of animal sacrifice.

Emad Suhweil, a 43-year-old displaced father of five from Beit Lahiya, notes that the absence of livestock in the markets has made Eid al-Adha feel less festive. “Every year we used to sacrifice… we would slaughter, be happy, eat together, and distribute to the poor,” he said.

The high cost of food and other necessities has also taken a toll on many families. Suhweil estimates that buying an animal for Eid is now out of reach for most families due to soaring prices. “The sheep that used to cost around 400-500 Jordanian dinars… now costs around 16,000-17,000 shekels,” he said.

Gaza’s livestock sector has suffered significant devastation since the war began in October 2023. Over 90 percent of livestock farms have been destroyed or damaged due to Israeli attacks and restrictions on movement. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry reports that this has had a devastating impact on the local economy.

As residents prepare for Eid, many are struggling to make ends meet. Despite the hardships, some are holding onto hope that they will eventually be able to celebrate the holiday in a more normal way.

Source: Al Jazeera