Syria Begins Ramadan Amid New Political Climate
DAMASCUS, Syria — As the holy month of Ramadan begins, many restaurants and coffee shops in Syria opted to close during the daylight hours, in line with Islamic traditions and a new government directive. Observant Muslims, who fast from sunrise to sunset during this month, may face penalties for publicly eating or drinking.
The interim Ministry of Religious Endowments has issued orders mandating the closure of all dining establishments and street vendors throughout the day, stating that those who disregard this rule could face up to three months in jail. While some establishments were still operating, they took measures such as closing their windows to maintain privacy and comply with the regulations.
Following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad’s government by insurgents, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), concerns about the future of Syria grow. Under the new leadership of former insurgent Ahmad al-Sharaa, many are wary that the country could shift toward a stricter Islamic state. During Assad’s tenure, the culture during Ramadan was more lenient, allowing for public eating, a stark contrast to the current environment where many are reluctant to break the fast in public due to fear of punishment.
The interim Minister of Religious Affairs, Hussam Haj-Hussein, declared this year’s Ramadan to be a time of “victory and liberation,” recognizing the significant changes in the political landscape. As countries across the globe, including Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, observe Ramadan, some regions, like Malaysia and Japan, start a day later due to varying religious customs.
This year marks a distinct change for Lebanon as well, as it observes Ramadan following a ceasefire agreement after prolonged conflict in the region. Local residents are feeling the weight of new restrictions, as demonstrated by comments from Munir Abdallah, a Damascus resident, who noted the serious approach to Ramadan rituals this year.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, begins based on the sighting of the crescent moon, leading to some variations in observance among Muslim communities worldwide. The month is marked by daily fasts, with families gathering for the evening meal known as iftar after sunset, along with a pre-dawn meal called suhoor to prepare for the day’s fast.
Following Ramadan, Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant feast days in Islam, marking the end of the fasting month.
This year’s Ramadan brings a blend of tradition along with the realities of a changed political landscape, prompting many in Syria to reflect on their faith and the new societal norms being established.
