Muslims worldwide mark Eidul Fitr amid Iran war, Gaza crisis

Mali, Niger and Afghanistan observed the occasion on Thursday, while Mideast, and Southeast Asia celebrated on Friday

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Web Desk March 21, 2026 1 min read

Muslims attend Eid al-Fitr prayers marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan at Gazi Husrev Beg Mosque in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, March 20, 2026. REUTERS

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Muslims across the world marked Eidul Fitr, celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramazan, during which they fast from dawn to dusk.

The festival begins with the sighting of the new moon, signalling the start of Shawwal. As some countries depend on physical moon sightings, the date of Eid can differ by region. Consequently, nations such as Mali, Niger and Afghanistan observed the occasion on Thursday, while much of the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia celebrated on Friday.

Worshippers offer congregational Eid prayers at the Kaaba in Makkah [AFP]

Eid prayers offered by worshippers. — AFP

Read: In pictures: Muslims celebrate Eidul Fitr around the world

Eidul Fitr, which lasts for two days, is distinct from Eidul Azha that coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage. The celebrations typically begin with a congregational prayer held in open spaces, followed by gatherings of family and friends and festive activities.

Sunni Muslim worshippers exchange greetings after Eid al-Fitr prayers at the shrine of cleric Sheikh Abdul Qadir al-Gailani in Baghdad, Iraq, March 20, 2026. REUTERS/

This year, however, the festival is being observed in several Muslim-majority countries amid ongoing conflict and instability. In Iran, the war has caused significant disruption, while parts of the Gulf are experiencing the spillover effects of escalating regional tensions. In Gaza, Eid has been overshadowed by a deepening humanitarian crisis, with ongoing violence, displacement and hardship dampening celebrations.

A Palestinian child stands in the trunk of a damaged car near a cemetery during Eidul Fitr, in Gaza City, March 20, 2026. REUTERS

Local market during Eid celebrations. — AFP

From additional input of AFP and Reuters