Apr 24, 2020 - World

In photos: Ramadan during the coronavirus pandemic

An empty mosque in Gaza

A man recites the call for prayer in empty mosque in Gaza. Photo: Ashraf Amra/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Mosques around the world are empty and silent as Muslims begin breaking their fast, ending the first day of Ramadan.

Why it matters: Many families and friends typically meet up at mosques to pray and celebrate the holy month, but the coronavirus pandemic has forced people to celebrate in isolation. Those who did go to mosques practiced social distancing.

A Palestinian preacher speaks before a camera while recording a sermon and broadcasting the audio
A Palestinian religious leader records a sermon in the West Bank. Photo: Jaafar Ashitiyeh/AFP/Getty Images
Empty mosque in the United Kingdom
Imam Hassanat Ahmed delivers his Friday broadcast live on social media in the United Kingdom. Photo: Oli Scarff/AFP via Getty Images
Imam Franck Hensch gestures during a simulation of the recording of a sermon during the Ramadan fasting period
Imam Franck Hensch gestures during a recording of a sermon during on the first day of Ramadan in Belgium. Photo: Benoit DeoppagneE/BELGA/AFP via Getty Images
Muslims praying while practicing social distancing in Pakistan
Muslims praying while practicing social distancing in Pakistan. Photo: Aamir Qureshi /AFP via Getty Images

Go deeper: Coronavirus upends Ramadan celebrations and traditions

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