Concerts and live performances are traditionally an integral part of every Gazan wedding, be they held on the street or in a venue. Gazans dance to tarab songs and blow off steam amid the hardships and violence that continuously plague Gaza.

But on July 14, the Hamas-affiliated Interior Ministry banned street concerts, to wide anger among Gazan residents and musicians.

Wael Hammouda, a Gazan who is planning to get married, had to cancel his wedding. Hammouda told Al-Monitor, “All the young men look forward to their wedding so they dance the night away with their friends, especially in Gaza, where conditions are very difficult. We have not held any concerts in two years due to the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing lockdowns. What’s the reason for this decision? Why do they want to ban such concerts when they bring so much joy to Gazans of all ages?”

He lamented, “I was really eager to organize a big wedding party in late July, but I was shocked by the decision. My family told me I should celebrate my wedding in a hall instead, but wedding halls cannot accommodate all my family members, relatives, neighbors and friends, unlike large streets where everyone can enjoy their time. Also, wedding halls are expensive.”