Ramadan begins on September 1 (September 2 for those in North America).

As Muslims around the world gear up for the annual observance, they are making some tough decisions before the fasting begins.

Indonesia:  Three Islamic militants (Islamists) are on death row for bombing night clubs in Bali in 2002. It was the worst terrorist attack on Indonesia, with 202 people killed and another 209 injured. The Indonesian government was hoping to execute the men by firing squad before the start of Ramadan. But yesterday, the Indonesian Attorney General announced they will not execute the men during the holy month of Ramadan, fearing backlash by Muslims.

Israel: Israel will release 200 Palestinian prisoners (of the total 9,000) during Ramadan. The release is a gesture from Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Olmert is hoping such goodwill can fuel peace talks.

Malawi and Morocco: In preparation for the fast, Muslims often stockpile food for the month. But with rising food costs, residents of Malawi and Morocco are fearful of having enough to eat. Some items are simply unaffordable; other items are being hoarded by those who can easily afford them. The demand created after such hoarding only makes the items more unaffordable.

Pakistan: With the announcement of President Musharraf’s resignation on Monday, the new coalition government (the Pakistan People’s Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, the same coalition that talked about impeaching Musharraf prior to his resignation) has only a month to pick a new president. But with Ramadan beginning in just over one week, and with an Islamic majority in the government, it seems likely they will have to wait until after the fasting month to make any decisions.

Learn more about the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

And watch Religion Transcends for more on this religious observance.

Filed under: Holidays, Islam