Millions of Muslims around the world are observing the holy fasting month of Ramadan. While is a peaceful affair for most of them, Muslims in war-torn nations are finding it tough.
The beginning of the ninth month in the Muslim lunar calendar marks the start of Ramadan, which this year began on August 2. For Muslims it is a time for spiritual reflection, prayers and fasting.
Muslims offer prayers before breaking their fast at sundown.
While it's a peaceful affair in many countries, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, it's a different story observing Ramadan under the constant threat of war.
In Libya, which is in the grip of an uprising, fasting is more difficult as food is scare for many so it's impossible to prepare a feast to break the fast. But while many observe Ramadan, on the frontline the rules are different. It's business as usual with no laying down of weapons during the holy month.
In Syria Ramadan is being observed amid an escalating crackdown against pro-democracy protesters.
And in Somalia, Islamic militia al-Shabab has begun an offense on Mogadishu, hampering aid efforts in the famine ravaged country.
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