This year, the start of Ramazan coincides with the expiration of the first phase of the fragile ceasefire that paused Israel’s 16-month war on the Gaza Strip, Al Jazeera reports.

As the holy month of Ramazan begins, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is intensifying, with Palestinians struggling to secure food and water, which exacerbates their suffering. Images show residents shopping and preparing for Ramazan in the ruins of the largely destroyed coastal enclave.

Ramazan is considered a time of heightened tensions, particularly in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. Hamas called on Palestinians to increase their presence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the holy month.

Palestinians from across the occupied West Bank yearn to pray in the mosque, yet Israeli police have traditionally obstructed access and attacked worshippers.

For many Palestinian evacuees who escaped the conflict and its destruction, this Ramazan marks another time of separation from their families in Gaza.