people of Raqqa, Tabqa, Deir ez-Zor prepare to celebrate the holiday

The markets of the Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Tabqa cantons are witnessing a revival as Eid al-Fitr approaches, where ANHA's correspondents have observed the atmosphere and the preparations of the locals to welcome the holiday.

In his speech, Abdul Hakim Al-Dakhil, a resident of Deir ez-Zor canton, spoke about the preparations of the locals for Eid this year, explaining that the atmosphere seems more celebratory and joyful. He expressed their hope for goodness and lasting security in Syria, saying: "Ramadan is a blessed month, may God bring it back to us and you with health, wellness, and safety. We always look forward to Eid, which is a joy for all Muslims, young and old."

Abdul Hakim explained that the preparations for Eid include many traditional rituals and customs, such as giving Zakat al-Fitr before breakfast. He added, "In the last days of Ramadan, people prepare Zakat al-Fitr and distribute it to those in need, and it is an obligation for every Muslim, whether fasting or not."

He also pointed out that these preparations include decorating homes, buying clothes and sweets, noting that the atmosphere in the markets is crowded with families preparing for the celebration.

Abdul Hakim concluded his speech by affirming that this year's Eid carries two joys: the joy of liberation and victory, and the joy of family reunification, as expatriates return after years of absence to celebrate with their loved ones.

In another interview, Mahmoud Sabikhan from the city of Hajin spoke about the atmosphere of Eid preparations this year, confirming that Eid represents a great joy for them, despite the challenges. He said, "Before Eid, we witness a different movement in the markets, as people rush to buy new clothes in preparation for the celebration."

Regarding prices, Mahmoud expressed his optimism, saying: "Thank God, prices were good during the holiday, despite the difficult economic circumstances, which helped people meet their needs." He concluded his remarks by saying: "I ask God to bring us this occasion again with health and wellness, and may you all be well every year."

Peace and security are everyone's wishes this holiday.

Ibrahim Al-Rashid, from the people of Afrin who were forcibly displaced to Tabqa canton, said: "Our country is occupied by the Turkish occupation and its mercenaries. Last year, we spent Newroz and Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha displaced in Shahba, and this year we are spending Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in the temporary shelter center in Tabqa."

He continued: "And we hope that in these blessed days, peace will prevail in our country, that the agreement between the SDF and the Damascus authority will be implemented, and that we will return to our homes and villages, and that all the displaced and refugees across the entire Syrian geography will return to their homes."

For his part, Mohamed Al-Khamri from the people of Tabqa said: "Every year, our country is well on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. What distinguishes this Eid from previous ones is the opening of roads between Syrian regions following the fall of the Ba'ath regime. The people, especially the youth, can now move around and visit relatives without fear of arrest by the Ba'ath regime. The delivery of products from factories to consumers has also become much easier, which has reflected on prices and led to their decrease, along with the improvement in the economic situation this year and the drop in the dollar exchange rate."

He added: "We hope that in the coming year, security and safety will prevail throughout Syria and that all the Syrian people will live well, away from sectarian wars and the bloodshed that the country has witnessed recently."

In Raqqa canton, Abdo Al-Anou said: "Regarding the atmosphere of Eid this year, there is heavy congestion compared to last year, and there is activity in the markets as we approach Eid al-Fitr. We wish joy to the mothers and families."

At the end of his speech, Al-Anou congratulated the families on the holiday and wished that every absent person would return to their loved ones, and that goodness, peace, and love would prevail among all the people in Syria.

Basil Al-Wasel confirmed that this Eid is different from last year's Eid, both in terms of prices and the decline in the exchange rate of the dollar. The turnout of families is very high during this period due to the noticeable decrease in the prices of clothing, sweets, and other items.

Basil Al-Wasil added: "Since the middle of Ramadan, we have been witnessing crowds in the markets, and we stay in the market selling until late at night, and this is due to the price difference between last year and this year."

He wished in his speech that security and peace would prevail throughout all Syrian territories, and that prices would remain balanced so that the residents could buy everything they needed.

T/S

ANHA