Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Ramadan celebrations begin May 15-16

Event

On May 15-16, Muslims in Israel, the Palestinian Territories, and elsewhere in the world will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16. Though practices can vary by country, businesses, restaurants, and government administrations may operate on a reduced schedule during this holy month.

Transportation disruptions are to be anticipated during this period due to increased number of travelers, especially in airports. Heavy traffic after sundown (particularly on weekends) is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather to celebrate the holy month with family. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of exhaustion, hunger, dehydration, and impatience.

Local authorities typically report a heightened terrorism threat during the month of Ramadan, and increased security measures should be expected in major urban areas. Authorities also typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period. Israel usually enforced “special procedures” as part of enhanced security measures for the duration of Ramadan. These may include entry controls for Palestinians wishing to enter Israel from the Gaza Strip or the West Bank or restrictions on access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Context

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and it carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion and abstain from certain activities.

More generally, this period also marks a significant increase in the regional terror threat in many Muslim-majority countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In recent years, Islamic State (IS), as well as other groups, have called on their fighters to perpetrate attacks during the holy month of Ramadan.

Advice

Individuals in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised remain aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious behavior. Although fasting is not strictly enforced as it is in some other countries, it is advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public throughout this period in more conservative neighborhoods or areas. Travelers are also advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.