Muslims worldwide gathered on Friday to celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Islamic festival of sacrifice, which honors the Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God. The day is traditionally observed with communal prayers, the ritual slaughter of animals, and the sharing of meals and gifts with family, neighbors, and those in need.
However, this year’s celebrations were marked by a somber tone as many worshippers, especially in Nairobi, Kenya, expressed deep concern for Palestinians in Gaza, where conditions have severely deteriorated due to ongoing Israeli military operations.
In Gaza, Eid festivities were virtually non-existent. After more than 20 months of conflict, the enclave is facing extreme shortages: no fresh meat has been imported in over three months, and the local livestock population has been decimated, leaving residents unable to carry out the ritual animal sacrifices central to the holiday.
Leading prayers in Nairobi, Imam Abdulrahman Mursal emphasized unity and compassion, urging worshippers not to forget their brethren in Gaza. “We feel their pain, even from thousands of miles away,” he said. “We ask Allah to grant them relief and victory, and to help all Muslims facing oppression around the world.” Despite the difficult circumstances, Muslims used the occasion to reinforce values of solidarity, faith, and resilience.
