How it unfolded
As Ramadan approached in 2026, the atmosphere in Gaza was markedly different from previous years. This year, families were preparing to observe the holy month without the constant sound of bombardment that had characterized their lives for so long. Islamic Relief aid workers noted that this was the first Ramadan since the ceasefire, and the change was palpable. “This year we fast without the sound of bombardment. That alone changes everything,” remarked one aid worker, highlighting the profound impact of the ceasefire on the community.
In Gaza, many families rely heavily on food parcels and shared hot meals during Ramadan. The need for humanitarian assistance remains critical, as the majority of families continue to struggle with food insecurity. Islamic Relief has been actively distributing fresh vegetables to those in need, ensuring that families can partake in the traditional meals that mark the holy month. The organization’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to support the local population, which has been significantly affected by ongoing conflicts.
The humanitarian situation in the region is dire, with the United Nations estimating that $4.06 billion is required to deliver life-saving support to approximately 3 million people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory in 2026. This staggering figure underscores the immense challenges faced by aid organizations like Islamic Relief, which are striving to meet the needs of the vulnerable populations.
In addition to food aid, the role of Zakat has become increasingly significant in the region. Islamic Relief Canada raised 33.87 million Canadian dollars in Zakat funds in 2025, transforming this charitable giving into a multi-million-dollar engine of survival for many families in the Middle East. Annabel Turner, a communications officer at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), emphasized the importance of Zakat, stating, “Zakat provides a structured system of support that can quickly reach those most affected.” This structured support is vital in a region where millions are internally displaced and in need of urgent assistance.
The IOM’s Share the Blessings campaign aims to support over 600,000 people in Gaza, further illustrating the collaborative efforts among various humanitarian organizations. Such initiatives are crucial as they work to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the prolonged conflicts in the region. The ongoing crises have led to significant humanitarian needs, with 19 million people currently internally displaced across the Middle East.
Healthcare access remains another pressing issue, particularly for vulnerable families. The SAMS Foundation supports more than 65 healthcare facilities across Syria, delivering over three million medical services in 2025. Dr. Abdulfatah Elshaar, chairman of SAMS, noted, “Access to free healthcare removes one of the largest financial burdens vulnerable families face.” This statement reflects the broader challenges families encounter, where healthcare costs can be prohibitive in times of crisis.
As Ramadan progresses, the collective efforts of organizations like Islamic Relief, IOM, and SAMS are essential in providing the necessary support to those in need. Volunteers, such as Mazin from Shambat, express a deep sense of purpose in their work, believing that their contributions are not just about providing food but also about fostering a sense of community and hope. “We believe our rizq – our provision from God – actually comes from the guests of the kitchen, because their prayers bring us ease and success,” he shared, highlighting the spiritual dimension of their humanitarian work.
Currently, the humanitarian landscape in Gaza remains fragile, with ongoing needs and challenges. The support from various organizations is crucial as they navigate the complexities of delivering aid in a region marked by conflict. The sequence of events leading up to this Ramadan underscores the importance of continued humanitarian efforts, as many families depend on the generosity and support of others to survive.