Embassies of many countries located in Kuwait have canceled their Ramadan programs and Iftar parties in view of the current security situation. The embassies of Bahrain, Oman and India have officially announced that they will not hold pre-scheduled events this time. At the same time, the US Embassy has issued an order for its employees and American citizens living in Kuwait to stay in ‘Shelter-In-Place’ only. This step has been taken as a precautionary measure following the ongoing tension and recent incidents in the area.
Which countries canceled their programs?
Different embassies in Kuwait have changed their schedules due to security reasons. The Indian Embassy has also canceled the Ramadan program to be held in its premises. According to the report, on February 28, the US Embassy instructed its mission personnel to return home and stay safe.
Oman Embassy: The reception scheduled for Saturday evening (February 28) has been cancelled.
Bahrain Embassy: The Ramadan Reception scheduled for Monday (2 March) is canceled until further notice.
Indian Embassy: Already scheduled Ramadan gatherings have been canceled and citizens have been advised to remain vigilant.
Tunisia Embassy: The services were closed due to National Day, which will resume from March 1.
New government rules for Ramadan amid security
The Kuwait government has also implemented some strict rules for Ramadan this year so that law and order is maintained. The Interior Ministry has clarified that the security forces are on ‘maximum alert’. People have been advised not to pay attention to rumours.
Tent Rules: For setting up a Ramzan tent, a fee of 500 dinars and a security deposit of 500 dinars will have to be paid. Tents should be 2 kilometers away from military areas.
Ban on collection of donations: Taking cash donations inside mosques is completely prohibited. Donation can be made only through electronic means like K-Net or bank transfer.
Ban on loudspeaker: External loudspeakers will not be used in mosques during namaz.
Iftar time: Iftar tables can be set up 30 minutes before Maghrib Azaan and will be removed immediately after the meal.
What advice do you have for the general public and expatriates?
Indians and other expatriates living in Kuwait have been advised to rely only on news from official government channels (such as the Ministry of Interior). Rumors circulating on social media, such as a fine of 1000 dinars or jail for gathering, have been dismissed by the ministry as false.
Apart from this, the working timings of government offices have been reduced to 4-hour shifts during Ramadan. For safety reasons, people have been advised to avoid going near military and oil installations. The Indian Embassy has also appealed to its citizens to follow local laws and remain alert.
