Eid Prayers in Bangladesh Highlight Calls for Peace Amid Global Conflict

Ongoing conflict in the Middle East has created instability across the world, and its effects are being felt in Bangladesh as well. Reflecting this situation, strong appeals for peace and an end to war were made during Eid-ul-Fitr prayers.

Eid-ul-Fitr, which comes after a month of fasting, is usually a time of joy for Muslims. However, this year, celebrations were more subdued in many Middle Eastern countries affected by conflict. Eid was observed there on Friday.

In Bangladesh, Eid was celebrated on Saturday following the sighting of the Shawwal moon. The main Eid congregation took place at the National Eidgah near the Supreme Court in Dhaka at 8:30 AM. The President, Mohammed Shahabuddin, and the Prime Minister, Tarek Rahman, attended the prayer.

Thousands of worshippers gathered in rows to perform the Eid prayer, led by Mufti Abdul Malek of the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. After the prayer and sermon, a special supplication was held.

During the supplication, prayers were offered for peace, prosperity, and stability in the country, as well as for an end to violence and unrest across the world. The congregation responded collectively with “Ameen.”

The imam prayed for protection from conflict and urged support for oppressed people around the world. He also called on Muslim nations to stand by those in need.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global energy markets, creating concerns over oil and gas supplies. Bangladesh has already felt some impact, including temporary fuel rationing before Eid. Although the situation improved during the holiday, there are concerns about future shortages and power disruptions if the conflict continues.

Several Bangladeshi citizens stranded in Iran were brought back home on a special flight ahead of Eid. At the same time, millions of Bangladeshi expatriates working in the Middle East remain worried about their safety. Some casualties among Bangladeshis have already been reported.

The situation has also raised concerns about remittance inflows, which are a key part of Bangladesh’s economy.

At the Eid gathering, one worshipper was seen holding a placard calling for an end to war, reflecting public concern.

Messages from national leaders also addressed the issue. The President noted the impact of global economic and energy challenges, while the Prime Minister emphasized unity, harmony, and compassion among citizens.

In a rare moment after more than three decades, both the President and the Prime Minister offered Eid prayers together at the same venue. They greeted each other warmly afterward, and the Prime Minister also exchanged greetings with members of the public.

Despite forecasts of bad weather, the main congregation was held peacefully under cloudy skies. Security was tight, with metal detectors and surveillance in place. The venue filled quickly, and many people offered prayers on nearby streets due to limited space.

Arrangements were made for around 35,000 worshippers inside the main ground, with additional space for up to 100,000 people in surrounding areas.