'An atmosphere of affection, amenity, love' - Egyptian Committee hosts largest iftar for displaced Palestinians in Netzarim refugee camp 18

"The Egyptian Committee in Gaza set up the largest mass Iftar for displaced families at the refugee camp 18 in the Netzarim area on Saturday, as part of its ongoing humanitarian efforts to support the Gazans during the holy month of Ramadan. Footage shows Palestinians gathering around a long table extending across the camp amid a jubilant atmosphere with smiles drawn on the faces of both the young and the elderly. Participants can also be seen breaking their fast and interacting with religious songs resonating at the site after iftar. Mohammad Mansour, spokesperson for the Egyptian Committee, stated that the mass gathering is 'the largest Iftar across the Gaza Strip' in one of the enclave's biggest camps. "An atmosphere of affection, amenity, and love prevailed among the people. In the past, families stayed inside tents and hadn’t ventured out in two years. This is the third year in which we haven’t seen anyone, not even our relatives. During these conditions, we met new people, spoke with them, and got acquainted," shared displaced resident Umm Mohammed Abu Saqr. Another Gazan, Huda, shared her feelings, calling the mass iftar a 'blessing' that allows residents to finally feel a sense of togetherness after years of conflict. "This means a lot to me, truly a lot, because it has brought us together after such a long time apart because of the harsh war we went through. I hope such gatherings will always continue," she said. This event follows an announcement made just days earlier by the Egyptian Committee, in collaboration with the Egyptian Red Crescent, of kicking off the 'Iftar for One Million Fasters' initiative. The move was described as an "urgent and widespread humanitarian initiative, demonstrating that Gaza is not alone." The Netzarim camp is the largest humanitarian shelter camp in the Gaza Strip, stretching over nearly 2,000 dunams, according to organisers. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar (Hijri), is one of the holiest months for Muslims. The Muslim is required to fast from dawn to sunset, for being one of the Five Pillars of Islam. "