Muslims Prepare for Ramadan Amid Global Tensions

CAIRO (AP) — Millions of Muslims around the globe are preparing to observe Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, beginning the evening of February 28 and lasting until March 30, 2025. This year, Ramadan coincides with significant global events, including a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after over 15 months of conflict.

Ramadan marks a period of spiritual renewal, where the faithful engage in increased worship, charitable acts, and intensive reflection. It culminates in the festive holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which celebrates the end of fasting.

“Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion,” said Ibrahim Ahmed, president of the Muslim Student Association at the University of Virginia. “You push yourself harder, trying to pick up new habits. It serves as a reset for the rest of the year.”

Fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset, fostering a sense of community and discipline. Muslims also aim to empathize with the less fortunate, and many engage in fundraising for charity and food distribution efforts.

The ritual of iftar, the meal to break the fast, is often a communal event where families and friends gather. In Egypt, colorful lanterns light up streets and homes, and traditional sounds, such as the pre-dawn call of the “mesaharati”—a drum-beating caller—echo through neighborhoods. In Indonesia, families feast together after sunset, with unique local customs enriching the observance.

In areas impacted by systemic turmoil, Ramadan can become a time for reflection on ongoing struggles. This year, as humanitarian issues persist amid the precarious ceasefire in Gaza, many Muslims will incorporate advocacy and solidarity into their prayers and charitable acts.

“The plights of fellow Muslims worldwide often become focal points during this holy month,” said a spokesperson for the Islamic Networks Group. “For many, it’s about connecting with others and reflecting on mutual concerns.”

In the U.S., universities and organizations are also making accommodations for students observing Ramadan. U.Va. Dine announced that it would expand its buffet options to include suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar, serving meals tailored to students’ dietary needs. “Students can conveniently order their meal through GrubHub, making it accessible for everyone,” said a U.Va. Dine representative.

The Muslim Student Association and various cultural groups are organizing iftar dinners throughout Ramadan, providing a sense of community not only for Muslims but for anyone interested in learning about the holiday. Notably, the MSA will host its annual Fast-a-Thon event, encouraging non-Muslims to fast in solidarity and learn more about Ramadan.

“It’s a beautiful moment for everyone to come together,” said Nazifa Rahman, a student leader. “It promotes understanding and awareness across our University community.”

As Ramadan approaches, many students express hope that their academic environments will become more accommodating. “More awareness from professors regarding fasting schedules could foster a more supportive atmosphere,” Ahmed noted. In the past, student-led initiatives have called for clearer guidelines to help educators understand the needs of fasting students.

Ramadan serves as a time for spiritual growth, community engagement, and heightened faith for Muslims worldwide, amidst ongoing global challenges. As the crescent moon appears, signaling the holy month, Muslims keenly anticipate a period of reflection, unity, and growth.