Gaza Strip, March 2 -- Muslims in the Middle East are observing the holy month of Ramadan under exceptional circumstances.

Ramadan is seen as a time of religious reflection and worship, charity, and community, as they fast from sunrise until sunset.

Families broke their first day of fast with loved ones, as towns and cities lit festive lights and held events for communities to mark the occasion as they have for generations during times of peace and economic stability.

However, the impact of war and major political transformations that shook the region are still felt.

This is the first Ramadan for many Syrian spent without the Assad dynasty ruling the country in over half a century. President Bashar Assad was ousted in a lightning insu...