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Syrian war has reshaped Ramadan for many

Since the Syrian regime lost control of Idlib in 2015, the city has become a melting pot of Ramadan traditions, as residents and refugees adapt to new lives.
People shop during the holy month of Ramadan in the rebel-held Idlib city, Syria June 8, 2017. Picture taken June 8, 2017. REUTERS/Ammar Abdullah - RTX39SDA
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Syria is living through its seventh Ramadan since the 2011 revolution. This year, however, many aspects are different, as a major part of the country has been destroyed and major demographic changes have been brought about by large waves of displaced people and the emigration of millions of Syrians. In many families, at least one of their members has been killed, arrested or abducted, and this affects the daily Ramadan rituals.

The northwest Syrian city of Idlib, which serves as a refuge for many civilians and opposition fighters, is now inhabited by Syrians who have been gradually displaced from Rif Dimashq, Homs and Aleppo and who came to live with the city’s native residents.

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