As Ramadan Approaches, So Does the Threat of Mass Violence and Terrorism
Executive Summary
With the holy month of Ramadan beginning on March 10, security concerns are mounting globally, as extremist groups exploit religious tensions to incite violence. While many nations and religious leaders are calling for peace and respect during this sacred time, there are growing fears of attacks and unrest in regions with ongoing conflicts, particularly in Israel, Gaza, and parts of Southeast Asia. The history of Ramadan-related violence, combined with current geopolitical tensions, has prompted heightened security measures in key areas, including Jerusalem, the West Bank, and southern Thailand.
Analysis
Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection, has unfortunately been used in past years as a flashpoint for terrorist activity and violent clashes. In Jerusalem, Israeli officials have reinforced their commitment to maintaining religious freedom and ensuring that Muslim worshippers can access holy sites. However, concerns remain that extremist elements could exploit the heightened religious sentiment to incite riots, particularly at Al-Aqsa Mosque, a known flashpoint in Israeli-Palestinian tensions.
Security experts warn that radical groups, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, have called for increased violence during Ramadan, framing it as a time of “resistance.” Historically, past Ramadans have seen significant escalations in violence, such as the Yom Kippur War of 1973, Ramadan riots in Jerusalem, and deadly attacks on Israeli civilians and security forces.
Beyond the Middle East, authorities in Thailand’s predominantly Muslim southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat are also bracing for potential violence. Pattani’s governor has urged peace and respect for Ramadan, but past insurgent attacks during the holy month have led to casualties. Malaysia continues to facilitate peace talks between Thai authorities and separatist groups, though political instability has slowed progress.
Economic hardships are adding another layer of tension in conflict zones. In the West Bank, Palestinian communities are struggling with food shortages and financial instability, leading some leaders to urge citizens to celebrate modestly and avoid displays of excess out of solidarity with those suffering. In Gaza, the humanitarian crisis remains dire, with access to aid hindered by ongoing hostilities.
Law enforcement agencies worldwide are preparing for potential security threats. In the U.S. and Europe, intelligence agencies are monitoring radical online activity for potential terrorist plots inspired by Ramadan-related calls to violence. Past years have seen increased threats and attacks against religious sites and crowded public gatherings during this time.
The Way Forward
As Ramadan begins, religious and political leaders must work to prevent violence and protect the sanctity of this sacred period. Nations must increase security without infringing on religious freedoms, ensuring that worshippers can practice their faith safely. The international community should continue to pressure extremist groups to cease their incitement while supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions in conflict zones.
For millions of Muslims, Ramadan remains a time of peace, reflection, and unity. The challenge lies in preventing those who seek to exploit it from turning a time of worship into a period of bloodshed.